According to the reading this week, studies conducted on Postlethewait's theory has had a minimal impact on learning. Initially, I thought the impact may depend upon how well the course was designed. The advantages are that it can be individualized, students can regulate their own learning, and can take on a multi-sensory approach to learning. There are some barriers with the use of this method. The low functioning student may not be as self-directed in their learning as the higher functioning student. I would think that it would be safe to assume that the pace, method, and content would be important elements to consider. Since adult learners are usually more self-directed in their learning, I think that it would definitely benefit the adult learner in higher education. Perhaps, the non-traditional student (possibly being educated in an alternative learning environment) could take advantage of this learning opportunity.
Although, I think that the audio tutorial may not be completely suited for the non-motivated, low functioning student, I do believe that it could be used as a supplement to instruction. Web-based 2.0 tools could be used for the creation of the audio-tutorial such as podcasting, voice thread, scribblar, and JayCut. With the theories of learning and instruction, more consideration is given way in which student learning occurs. There are so many ways to include audio-tutorials, even if they are used as a supplement to instruction.
I, too, was surprised at the data and how much less of an impact Postlethewait's A-T Model made on learning. I love to learn by doing while watching a step-by-step video. That is how I learned to ftp my first video to a server. The kid who made the videos had to be around 14 years old and he posted them on YouTube.
ReplyDeleteI think this model's potential lies in the learning style of the learner. If students were given a choice, some would choose this method. I also think it depends on the topic being taught. I don't want my heart surgeon to learn using only this model. I want her or him to practice, gain experience under the supervision of experienced professionals, and learn about potential obscurities from others (not on me). Ya know what I mean?
Thanks for sharing!
Kristy
Donia and Kristy -
ReplyDeleteI am laughing at the thought of the heart surgeon telling the patient "Trust me! I saw how to do this procedure on YouTube last night"! But I do think that Donia makes a great point about how this can be a "supplement to instruction". Now my daughter loves a great website that I think I would be happy if the heart surgeon used as a supplement: http://www.visiblebody.com/
Barb - I checked out that website. Thanks for sharing!! I am going to show my son who just finished biology and is studying medical technology (taught by an RN). Very cool!
ReplyDeleteVoicethread is an interesting idea for audio-tutorial. Certainly incorporates the audio piece with the option for visuals, and the added benefit of allowing viewers to ask questions or respond to the content. This two-way conversation capability might support a TA in an audio-tutorial setup, as they could go in and review student questions with feedback.
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