Perceptions of Effectiveness of Instructional Uses of Technology in Higher Education in an Era of Web 2.0

Understanding learners' perceptions regarding the effectiveness of information and communication technology (ICT) use, including those in the broad category of social media, is both important and critical to the success or failure of integration of ICT in higher education settings. Using theories of educational psychology and technology integration, a 50-item survey was constructed and data were collected from 14,283 students from 12 Québec universities in Canada, using a probabilistic sampling strategy. Exploratory factor analyses followed by multiple regressions show that engaging lectures, effective use of ICT tools for individual study and group-work, as well as active and self-regulated study strategies have a positive and significant impact on students' perceptions of course effectiveness. Results are discussed in light of research on social media tools, instructional effectiveness and gender difference in technology use.