Testing the potential for improving student mastery of complex financial concepts online

This study is the first stage of investigation into the impact of online learning resources (OLRs) on student skills and confidence in tackling complex financial concepts taught in an undergraduate economics subject. A modified version of Keller's Instructional Materials Motivation Survey (Keller 1983) was used as the framework for investigation into students' levels of confidence after use of the OLRs. Confidence is a key factor in student motivation and has been shown to influence student attitude to learning, learning effectiveness and capacity to learn. The OLRs comprise short video clips with audio narration demonstrating complex financial concepts, combined with skills-testing tools that provide supportive targeted feedback. Student surveys were conducted to assess the impact of the intervention on student confidence and performance. Analysis of the survey data suggests students were enthusiastic adopters of the resources, and regarded them as effective in promoting understanding and raising confidence levels when learning difficult concepts. In topics where OLRs were available students achieved higher grades. The study therefore provides a useful test to assess potential advancements in learning using OLRs. The paper concludes with suggestions for the next phase in developing OLRs to promote efficiencies in teaching and learning without compromising depth of student learning