Feasibility analysis of improving on-campus learning paths via a depth sensor

Abstract

This research aims to apply a depth sensor to create a human-body-sensing context for outdoor learning paths; it is conducted by incorporating both quasi-experiment and survey to compare students’ cognitive learning outcome within the context and understand students’ attitudes toward the context created. The result of ANCOVA indicates that the context of an introductory film activated by the depth sensor produces better cognitive learning outcome. Furthermore, the survey of students’ attitudes also shows positive attitudes from both experimental and control groups toward the additional use of a human-body-sensing system activated by the depth sensor. The experimental results show the depth sensor can be used to improve conventional learning paths, i.e. with information boards only, for it enables students to participate in wireless sensing learning with their hands free from holding any device.

Keywords:

• contextual interaction
• depth sensor
• learning path(s)
• subject classification codes: educational technology
• computer-assisted learning

Acknowledgements

The deepest gratitude goes to the National Science Council of Taiwan for its funding (NSC 99-2120-S-259-001-NM), and the Review Panel for its utmost advice.

Notes on contributors

Wen-Fu Pan is currently an associate professor in the department of Educational Administration and Management at National Dong Hwa University, Taiwan. He received his Ph.D. degree in Educational Technology at National Taiwan Normal University, 2001. His research interests include computer-assisted teaching and learning.

Shih-Chun Tu is currently a doctoral student in the department of Computer Science and Information Engineering at National Dong Hwa University, Taiwan. He received his M.S. degree in Applied Mathematics at National Sun Yat-sen University, 1995. His research interests include data hiding, computer graphics, and computer vision.

Mei-Ying Chien is currently an associate professor in the department of Educational Administration and Management at National Dong Hwa University, Taiwan. She received her Ph.D. degree in Educational Studies at the University of York, England, 1998. Her research interests include media literacy education, multicultural education, and teacher education.