Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Aletha's ATA and PSI Unit 1 Blog

Davis, Robert L. and Kenneth M. Ragsdell, "Designing of an Effective, Web-Based, Global Learning Environments Using the Keller Plan", Director, Instructional Software Development Center, University of Missouri-Rolla, USA, http://www.umr.edu/~isdc
Director, Design Engineering Center, University of Missouri-Rolla, USA, http://www.umr.edu/~design
Kulik, James A., Kulik, Chen-Lin C., and Peter A. Cohen (1979).’Research on Audio-Tutorial Instruction: A meta-analysis of comparative studies’. Research in Higher Education. 11(4), 321-341

My first thoughts were, when viewing the sample projects was that the Audio-Tutorial Instruction (AT) project seemed harder to produce than the PSI. However, in reading both articles it seems as though the preference to one over the other will always be determined by the learner and his/her own learning style. According to my understanding, AT is a better means of studying topics of instruction that need step by step, smaller groups, and individualized learning. I think this approach is good for students on the go (working) to keep up with their lesson via audio tapes but still be able to meet with their class.  PSI however, is good for the “self-pacing person” who is an independent learner but need the freedom to move and learn at their own pace.   In the audio tutorial system paper, Kozma et al. concluded that no more than two-thirds of the students studied attributed superiority to the AT approach. Yet, similar results of other instructional methods showed across studies was the PSI, even though he cautions us on the statement.  It was surprising to see that the AT and PSI ranked high in course quality, but when it came down to material for teaching, the PSI was shown to be more effective.
I would have thought the independent study session of A-T would lead to it being viewed as more effective by students. I was also surprised that neither the AT or the PSI method of individualized instruction was successful in showing the margin difference between low-performing and high-performing students.

 Overall, I still believe that the process by which we learn will it going to be determined by who we are, how we learn, and the circumstance by which we live in.  Just my opinion!


Aletha

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Aletha C. Watson


I believe that each child is a unique individual who needs a secure, caring, and stimulating atmosphere in which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. It is my desire as a educator to help students meet their fullest potential in these areas by providing an environment that is safe, supports risk-taking, and invites a sharing of ideas. There are three elements that I believe are conducive to establishing such an environment, (1) the teacher acting as a guide, (2) allowing the child's natural curiosity to direct his/her learning, and (3) promoting respect for all things and all people.