Learners Multitasking (Task Switching) during a Virtual Classroom session

Should teachers be concerned?

Abstract

The use of virtual classrooms (VC) in the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector is becoming increasingly popular due to the ability for learners from any location to access education online in real time with a teacher, and to participate in an environment that simulates a face to face classroom. However, a major area of concern that has emerged is the tendency for learners to multitask (task switch) rather than remain attentive and focused on the content being delivered. This paper reports on findings from a study which investigated whether learners are task switching while participating in a VC and whether this affects the teaching and learning that occurs.