Measuring Time Load Using a Mobile Application to Monitor Curriculum Workload

Abstract

Insuffient time for learning activities makes learning very difficult. Weaker students need more time to appropriately manage their learning objectives. To ensure enough study time, curriculum designers must monitor potential mismatches between needed versus provided study time. This study was conducted to measure students’ time loads and compare them to the workload determined by the curriculum and measured in European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) credits. Time load entry using the Studo mobile application consisted of entering the time required for all learning activities, categorized into attendance, self-study, and writing student papers, per course. In addition to time load measures, socio-demographic information on travel time, care obligations, and employment status was recorded. Over six semesters (2018/2019–2021), the average response rate per semester was low (8%–17%). Of the 75 piloted courses (4–16 per semester), 2 exceeded the number of hours specified in the curriculum. Regarding socio-demographic data, 3%–34% of the evaluated students worked part time (≥ 10 hours per week). In summary, students were disinclined to measure their learning time. With consideration of potential nonresponse bias, no significant evidence of curriculum workload exceedance was found for the evaluated courses at the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna. However, some students are under increased individual time pressure due to part-time employment. The ratio of measured to estimated time should be monitored as a key component to improve performance and enhance student learning.