Abstract

This literature review examines the published findings from research studies dealing with web-based learning (WBL) and measured gender effects. Particularly, the review presents a theoretical model of WBL which distinguishes between human-, technology-, and course characteristics as basis for instructional events. Instructional events (e.g., assessing performance) support learning and are related to motivational (e.g., goal setting), cognitive (e.g., monitoring), and emotional processes (e.g., positive feelings). These processes are postulated to influence learning outcomes (e.g., interest, knowledge, and satisfaction). Based on this model, a meta-analysis of 14 empirical studies dealing with WBL and gender effects was conducted. Results show that gender effects are small at all levels of the postulated model. Discussions concern theoretical as well as methodological aspects of gender-related research in the field of WBL. Finally, recommendations for improving future research and educational practice are given.

Citation

Astleitner, H. & Steinberg, R. (2020). Are there gender differences in web-based learning? An integrated model and related effect sizes. AACE Review (formerly AACE Journal). Waynesville, NC USA: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE). Retrieved August 11, 2024 from https://www.learntechlib.org/primary/p/5042/.

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