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An Integrated Framework for Interactive and Inclusive Asynchronous Online Learning at Scale: Data Literacy in Higher Education

Abgaz, Yalemisew orcid logoORCID: 0000-0002-3887-5342 (2026) An Integrated Framework for Interactive and Inclusive Asynchronous Online Learning at Scale: Data Literacy in Higher Education. Education Science, 16 (4).

Abstract
Online asynchronous learning offers considerable flexibility but frequently faces challenges in sustaining engagement, interactivity, and inclusivity across diverse learner populations. This study introduces the OPTIMAL framework—an Online, Pedagogy- and Technology-Integrated, Microcurricula Approach for interactive and inclusive Learning—synthesising universal design for learning, active learning, and constructive alignment with technology integration frameworks (TPACK and PICRAT), operationalised through a microcurricula-as-a-service architecture. A three-year longitudinal case study (2022/23 to 2024/25) examined the application of the framework to a data literacy and analytics module serving over 5000 students across more than 15 programs and five faculties at Dublin City University. The module design constructively aligned learning outcomes, content, and technology at three levels to support multiple learning pathways, formative assessment, and transdisciplinary engagement, deliberately fostering transformative uses of technology in a fully asynchronous environment. Mixed-methods evaluation—combining learning analytics, surveys (n = 1743), and qualitative feedback—demonstrated sustained positive outcomes across all three years, including 95–99% completion rates, consistently high satisfaction, and longitudinal gains in engagement and pass rates. These findings demonstrate how the deliberate integration of pedagogical theory, technological frameworks, and modular curriculum architecture can deliver scalable, inclusive, and high-engagement online education, offering both a transferable, evidence-based model for educators and curriculum designers and longitudinal empirical validation for researchers.
Metadata
Item Type:Article (Published)
Refereed:Yes
Uncontrolled Keywords:Inclusive education; universal design for learning; UDL; online asynchronous learning; technology integration; microcurricula; educational technology; transformative learning; active learning; data literacy
Subjects:Computer Science > Information technology
Computer Science > Interactive computer systems
Social Sciences > Educational technology
Social Sciences > Teaching
DCU Faculties and Centres:DCU Faculties and Schools > Faculty of Engineering and Computing
DCU Faculties and Schools > Faculty of Engineering and Computing > School of Computing
Publisher:MDPI
Official URL:https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7102/16/4/639
Copyright Information:Author
ID Code:32537
Deposited On:01 May 2026 08:37 by Yalemisew Abgaz . Last Modified 01 May 2026 08:37
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