Blended learning engagement practices with Moodle resources, in an introductory electronics engineering course: Exploring discursive manifestations of systemic contradictions using activity theory

The integration of Learning Management Systems in engineering education has tremendously changed teaching and learning. Studies on student engagement issues are typically conducted using learning analytics or log data quantitatively or using questionnaires on students and teachers’ experiences, qualitatively. It is essential to holistically understand the reasons behind low engagement with Moodle resources, as this can help identify areas for improvement to enhance student engagement and performance. This study applies activity theory to investigate challenges in engaging students in a blended learning electronics engineering course using Moodle, focusing on systemic relations within the learning environment. By analysing contradictions within the activity system, the study reveals underlying tensions and conflicts, uncovering opportunities to improve engagement and effectiveness. Since contradictions cannot be directly observed, linguistic cues are used to identify their discursive manifestations, enabling educators to develop targeted interventions that address challenges and provide productive educational experience.Findings derived from semi-structured interviews and questionnaires with teachers and students, show that inconsistencies in instructional materials, underutilisation of Moodle features, students' diverse learning preferences and teachers' compromised familiarity with Moodle are primary sources of contradictions, leading to reduced student engagement.By drawing attention to the socio-cultural contradictions within the current system, this study emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing these contradictions in educational contexts to foster progressive changes in the learning process. The study demonstrates how linguistic cues can be used to identify contradictions. Results indicate the need for better instructional design, effective use of Moodle, and improved teacher training to enhance student engagement in blended learning environments.Keywords: student engagement; learning management systems; Moodle; electronics engineering; blended learning; engineering educationPart of the Special Issue Activity theory in technology enhanced learning research (part 2) <https://doi.org/10.21428/8c225f6e.a88579e2>