Distance Learning for Design Student

An Analysis of Student Performance in Independent Landscape Design Studio

Abstract

Independent Landscape Design (LDA350) is the final semester course that required a full landscape design process. This design-based syllabus is more acquainted with face to face or physical teaching-learning process. However, to pursuit the IR 4.0 education, this course has adopted MOOCLAA350 to engage and equip these design students with significant understanding, graphic presentation skills as well as technical aspect related to design developments and constructions. The teaching and learning environment has subsequently expanded. With the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic that started early this year, therefore this course is easily adaptable to this educational change with ODL (Open Distance Learning) being the new strategy that was put forth for teaching and learning. This paper analyses student performance in adopting MOOC and ODL during the Covid-19 outbreak. An online survey supported with a comparative analysis between semesters was conducted to evaluate the student’s readiness, challenges and performance throughout the semester. Some tools and techniques to ensure the continuity of learning during the current pandemic are described. The findings revealed factors contributing to student performance and the reality behind the success of this new teaching strategy.