An Adaptable Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) incorporating Individualised Learning Profiles

Damian Gordon

eLearning

Research Group

Introduction

• eLearning

• Computer lecturers do it any way

• 3rd Level Topics - complex and dense

SSADM

SSADM

SSADM

Learning Styles

• Cognitive Styles– Left/Right Brain (Assagioli, Maslow, Jenson, Wells, Sechenov)

• Briggs-Myers Scale

• Felder Scale

• Kolb Model

• McLuhan Model

• Bloom Taxonomy

• Reeves and Haron Model

Work Plan

Year 1 – Teaching of SSADM through the normal means “chalk-and-talk” and PowerPoint slides

Year 2 – SSADM is presented through web pages, which allow hyper-linking between related topics

Year 3 – A project prototype is used to present SSADM

• Year 4 – The final system is used to present the topic to the students.

Evaluation Methods

Questionnaires : Students who are learning SSADM in the current academic year (without the benefit of the VLE) will be given a questionnaire to rank their understanding of SSADM and its individual stages and techniques. Next year after the VLE is complete and being used by the students, those student will also be given a comprehensive questionnaire, using both t-tests and Kolmogorov-Smirnov [Cono80] test results will be compared. In this model the corresponding student groups will provide a statistically significant evaluation.

Interviews : Structured interviews will be used to assess the success of the system. Research will be required to determine good interviewing technique, and the evaluation thereof.

• Logging : The system will keep extensive logging per user of their progress through the system. Review and summaries of the logs will highlight difficult modules, as well as common areas where users quit, which will prompt redesign of these particular modules.