Development and Validation of a Nano Learning Practices Scale (NLPS)

Abstract

The study aimed to develop and administer a Likert-type instrument related to the implications of nano learning practices for content delivery at the higher education level. The scale, named "Nano Learning Practices" (NLP), was developed after a review of the literature. Initially, total 27 items were developed. After the review, the experts' observations were incorporated into the instrument. A total of 25 items were finalized for scale administration. The study employed a descriptive approach, utilized a quantitative method to collect data. Data were collected from a purposively selected sample of 203 undergraduate students from public and private universities in Punjab. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was used to identify factors. As a result of the analysis, five factors with good factor loadings were identified. These factors were setting objectives (1-5 items), Chunking Information (5-10 items), Effective Assessment (11-13 items), incorporating visuals and multimedia (14-20), and Timely Feedback (21-25 items). Then, Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was applied to confirm these factors. Overall values for Cronbach's Alpha of the instrument were 0.878. The values for Average Variance Extracted (AVE), construct reliability (CR), and discriminant validity (DV) were found within the acceptable range. The developed instrument for nano learning practices was found to be reliable and valid. The Nano-Learning Practices Scale (NLPS) is an instrumental assessment tool for evaluating nano-learning methodologies in academic settings. It may equip educators with insights to strategically plan lessons, aiming to optimize learning and sustain student attention. The NLPS may significantly contribute to educational research by designing clear and concise learning objectives, integrating chunked information, the inclusion of effective assessment, incorporating visuals and multimedia, and giving timely feedback. This scale may serve as a reliable resource for future academic investigations, focusing on enhancing the accessibility and effectiveness of student learning.