|
| |
Case Study 7: Hypertext and learning styles: optimising
the effectiveness of training software
|
Principle researcher |
David Ellis, Nigel Ford,
Frances Wood, Dave Clark and Geoff Smith |
|
Contact details |
Sheffield University
Department of Information Studies
Western Bank,
Sheffield, S10
2TN |
|
Dates |
1992-1995 |
|
Description |
Training can be an expensive commodity. Reducing
the time needed for training and increasing its effectiveness and durability
are thus important aspects in the development of software destined for Open
Learning applications. The advent of the Single European Market in 1992 led
to fundamental changes in the law and practices relating to commercial and
industrial operations. Both managers and staff had to learn quickly in order
to assimilate these changes. There is evidence that training can be more
effective when it is matched to learners' individual styles and strategies
for processing information. Many traditional teaching methods do not
effectively match the presentation of information with specific learning
needs. Because of the lack of enabling
technology, it has not previously been practical to implement the matching
of cognitive and behavioural aspects of learning styles with teaching
approaches and learning resource development. However, matching teaching
with learning styles and strategies has become much easier with the advent
of an enabling technology known as Hypertext.
Hypertext was designed to be utilised in the
production of learning packages which would reduce training time and
increase the durability and quality of training. The ultimate aim of
hypertext was to make technology-based training more cost-effective.
Hypertext has exciting potential for developing training approaches and
materials likely to achieve significant improvements in the quality of
training. This project sought to exploit the contribution which this
technology could make to developing training packages geared closely to
trainees' own individual styles and strategies.
(from the project
summary, Ellis et al, 1995) |
|
References |
Ellis, D, Ford, N, Wood,
F, Clarke, D Smith G, and Alan Griffiths. (1995) Hypertext and learning
styles: Optimising the effectiveness of training software, Report OL148
for the Department for Education and Employment. Sheffield University
Department of Information Studies. (available from Keith May Consulting) |
|
