Adult Learning Styles and the Effectiveness of Computer Based Training: An Untilled Research Field
Abstract
During the first half of this project, numerous computer-based classes have been developed to enable asynchronous instruction to be provided to health care professionals. Previous research has proven the effectiveness of computer-based training, and this project has endeavored to elucidate which particular methods are most acceptable to the various student populations. Clinicians are an especially impatient student population. They will not embrace a cumbersome program that takes an excessive amount of time to download, even if there is a significant educational benefit. "Bells and whistles" such as imbedded video and interactivity are desirable to the point where they impede completion time of the module of instruction. Most physicians would prefer a simple "page turner" digital product to an imbedded video presentation that drags on and on. The loss of control of pace inherent to a streaming video product is considered sub optimal In addition, during this project, it is not practical to expect ready availability of the high band-width required to produce a high quality video presentation. Band-width issues can be ameliorated through alternate delivery vehicles, such as CD ROM. The infrastructure developed during the first half of this project has allowed on-line delivery of learning objects, as well as testing of students. A knowledge management system has been purchased which allows tracking of student completion of modules, or failure to do so. It has also allowed the investigators to capture objective measures of student performance (e.g. test scores) on individual blocks of instruction.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA401196
Entities
People
- Joseph F. Mckeon