A learner profile analysis based on competences to improve online teaching strategies

TLDR: The purpose of this article is to analyze the online learner profile, through an initial assessment, to know if there is a gap between the expected competences and the real ones, and introduced some recommendations and learning strategies to teachers in order to reduce the gap.

Abstract: European Universities are developing Bachelor degrees according the European Higher Education Area which focuses on the acquisition of a set of cross curricula and specific competences. The educational models are now centered on activities as a means for learners to achieve new competences improving their performance and skills. The purpose of this article is to analyze the online learner profile, through an initial assessment, in order to know if there is a gap between the expected competences and the real ones. This study focuses on some online courses with a set of specific Computer Engineering competences related to Math, Logic and Programming. Using a mixed methodology that combines a qualitative and quantitative data, the online learner profile is analyzed. The paper provides a detailed description about findings, seeking causes and providing guidelines, for improving the learning process based on competences. To conclude, it is introduced some recommendations and learning strategies to teachers in order to reduce the gap.