EFFECTS OF PERSONALIZED LEARNING AS AN INSTRUCTIONAL APPROACH ON STUDENTS’ SELF-DETERMINATION AND LEARNING ENGAGEMENT IN ONLINE HIGHER EDUCATION

The researcher applied a convergent parallel mixed-methods design to collect, analyze, and merge quantitative and qualitative data simultaneously. Qualitative findings have converged with and diverged from the quantitative data. Quantitative results revealed that personalized learning has a statistically significant effect on students’ perceived feelings of autonomy and their online learning experiences. The approach also showed a significant effect on students’ perceptions toward their instructors. The findings showed that the majority of learners perceived personalized learning to be an effective instructional approach. According to the qualitative findings, this approach showed a positive effect on students’ self-determination (autonomy and competence), intrinsic motivation, engagement, and online learning experiences. However, the intervention did not show a positive effect on students’ feelings of relatedness.

This study may contribute to the understanding of effective and influential teaching and learning approaches, especially in online learning environments. The final findings might inform educators, instructional designers, and instructors about the personalized learning potential of tailoring online courses to students’ needs and interests, which may increase student motivation and engagement.