Original Research: Technology in Academics
The eFundi learning management system as communication and relationship building instrument
Suid-Afrikaanse Tydskrif vir Natuurwetenskap en Tegnologie | Vol 35, No 1 | a1390 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/satnt.v35i1.1390
| © 2016 Michelle Mays, Magrita N. Wiggill
| This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 30 April 2016 | Published: 29 August 2016
Submitted: 30 April 2016 | Published: 29 August 2016
About the author(s)
Michelle Mays, School of Communication Studies, North-West University, South AfricaMagrita N. Wiggill, School of Communication Studies, North-West University, South Africa
Abstract
Learning management systems (LMSs) are used by universities to support learning and teaching. Two-way communication and strong relationships can contribute to successful learning, however, LMSs are not generally viewed as an instrument to facilitate just that in an e-learning environment. The perceptions of lecturers and students on the eFundi LMS as communication and relationship building instrument was studied in this case by means of semistructured interviews and group-administered surveys. It was found that although students have a need for engaging in two-way communication with lecturers and costudents by means of the eFundi LMS and viewed it favourably as a relationship- building instrument, most lecturers did not make use of its interactive functionalities. Further research from a communication and relationship building perspective is therefore necessary to assure optimal LMS use in e-learning environments.
Keywords
Learning management systems; Communication; Relationship building
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