A Pilot Case-Study of Using Instructional and Demonstration Videos as a Supplementary Tool for Learning in an Exercise Science Course at a Minority-Serving Institution

Abstract

Lecture recording is a practice several programs and courses (virtual and face-to-face) are employed to allow for students to have access to live self-paced lectures, to provide an additional study tool, and at times, recordings are provided as a source of engagement. Universal software programs such as Echo 360 allow instructors to record and monitor student engagement with video content such as view time. Research has explored student use of lecture recordings; however, this project explores how accessing the videos influenced the student aside from gaining content knowledge. Instructional and demonstration videos were included as supplemental materials within content-based modules on the learning management platform at the institution. Seventeen students were enrolled in the upper-level undergraduate exercise science course and had immediate access to the recordings. Situational motivation was analyzed and reported. On average, at mid-term and the final point in the semester, students were extrinsically motivated when choosing to watch the recording(s), however, positive shifts towards intrinsic motivation were noticed along the continuum of motivation. The significance of the change in motivation was not explored. This pilot case study recommends the addition of active assignments with supplementary materials such as relevant video instructions and demonstrations to guide students in understanding and applying hands-on concepts in upper-level exercise science programming courses to mentally prepare students for undergraduate internships in the field.