Factors that impact student frustration in digital learning environments

Abstract

The use of digital learning technologies and platforms has skyrocketed over the past decade. Although digital materials have many advantages, using them can be frustrating to students. Frustration is a negative achievement emotion that can serve as a barrier to learning. Therefore, understanding how frustration influences student learning and attitudes toward technology can help create more engaging and effective digital learning experiences. Previous research has identified three areas of frustration with academic e-textbooks (e-text frustration): (1) interactions with e-text interface, (2) technical difficulties, and (3) curriculum integration. This study investigated the relationships among e-text frustration and motivational, cognitive, attitudinal, academic, and demographic factors that impact frustration with e-texts in undergraduate biology classes. Extraneous cognitive load and motivation significantly predicted each of the three frustration constituents. Surprisingly, intrinsic cognitive load failed to predict e-text frustration. This study makes an important contribution to emotion research in education by examining the factors that impact learning in digital settings and emotions. Its implications are relevant for educators, researchers, and developers of digital learning materials and environments.