Yu-Chun Kuo
Yu-Chun Kuo
Discoveries in Education: Yu-Chun Kuo
Dr. Yu-Chun Kuo, Associate Professor at Rowan University, is advancing our understanding of what makes online and blended learning effective. Her award-winning research explores how motivational factors influence student performance, offering educators practical strategies to design more supportive, engaging digital classrooms. Through collaboration with colleagues nationwide, her work is helping to shape the future of higher education in an era where online learning is more vital than ever.
Innovating Through Research in Online Learning
Dr. Kuo recently co-authored a study that examines the connection between motivation and academic performance in online and blended courses. The two-year collaborative project used a meta-analysis approach to identify which motivational factors most effectively predict student success.
“What we found,” Kuo explains, “is that the relationship between motivation and performance is weaker in online and blended courses compared to traditional classrooms. This means other factors—like course design, interaction, and student support—may play a stronger role in shaping outcomes.”
This insight challenges educators to rethink assumptions about online learning and motivates institutions to refine their digital teaching practices.
Inspiration & Collaboration
Kuo’s research grew out of her long-standing interest in online learning, informed by both her scholarship and her teaching experiences. She emphasizes that collaboration was central to the project’s success: “Through working with faculty and researchers from different institutions, this study was completed, presented at national conferences, and published in the Online Learning Journal.”
The article has already received recognition, winning the 2025 Outstanding Publication Award from the Association of Educational Communications and Technology (AECT).
Impact on Teachers and Students
Both instructors and learners stand to benefit from Kuo’s work. She notes that educators can apply her findings directly:
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Support student well-being: Address anxiety and distress in online environments through counseling resources and responsive teaching.
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Focus on thoughtful design: Incorporate instructional strategies and digital tools that boost motivation and confidence.
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Equip students with skills: Help learners set goals and develop persistence in navigating online coursework.
“Motivation is still important,” Kuo stresses, “but online learning requires us to pay attention to how courses are designed and how students are supported.”
Looking Ahead
Kuo sees her research as a foundation for more nuanced studies into online education. “In addition to motivation, factors like learning styles, engagement, and interaction may have an even greater influence on student success,” she says. By exploring these intersections, she hopes to continue shaping programs that meet the needs of diverse learners.
Learn More About Dr. Kuo’s Work
At the Rowan University College of Education, we believe discoveries in education take many forms — from bold innovations to everyday acts of impact. This year, we’re spotlighting alumni, faculty, and students who are actively reimagining education, engaging communities, and transforming lives.
Whether you're leading research, launching a side project, mentoring others, improving classroom practices, or advocating for change, we’d love to hear your story. Read other Discoveries.
