Learners' Perceptions on the Value of PowerPoint in Lectures.

Abstract

Students of today, who have grown up with and become accustomed to the visual stimulation of television, computers, and video games, expect technology to be used effectively as part of their learning experience. As a result, faculty are continuously challenged to hold the attention of these learners from the high-tech generation. Through the thoughtful use of computer presentation programs, faculty can create professional-looking presentations to enhance student learning and achieve course goals. The intent of this study was to assess student perceptions on the value of PowerPoint presentations in lectures. One hundred sixty undergraduate students at the University of Pittsburgh completed a 12-item Likert scale survey and two open-ended questions regarding the use of PowerPoint. Results from the survey are discussed, along with the professor's goals for using PowerPoint. The majority of students agreed that PowerPoint had a positive effect on lectures, especially in helping them to take notes and to study for exams. They preferred PowerPoint lectures to traditional lectures using a blackboard or whiteboard. They also perceived professors who delivered PowerPoint as being more organized. Students did not believe that making PowerPoint slides available before class was a strong motivator or deterrent in attending class. A literature review and the student PowerPoint survey are included. (AEF) Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. Learners' Perceptions on the Value of Power Point in Lectures By Barbara A. Frey, D.Ed. Instructional Designer The Center for Instructional Development & Distance Education University of Pittsburgh http://www.pittedut-ciddeweb/ David J. Birnbaum, Ph.D. Associate Professor and Chair Department of Slavic Languages and Literatures University of Pittsburgh http://clover.slavic.pitt.edu/-tales/