Many tutorials are available ranging from basic concepts for beginning learners to the works of B.F. Skinner for advanced students. The tutorials fit well as introductory lessons or can be embedded within an applied workshop or academic course.
Can a tutorial be accomplished in one sitting?
Each tutorial is divided into short sets (lessons). Each set requires from just a few minutes to 15 minutes or more to complete. Each set has 30 to 50 or more individual frames (windows).
Each frame of content requires the learner to fill in a missing word or answer a question as it progressively builds the learner's response strength. The sets must be done sequentially because the concepts build upon each other. Thus, this method of instruction requires close attention to each and every word in frames.
Sets of frames should be completed without interruption of any kind. Frames require remembering what has just preceded that frame. The learner cannot go backwards in the program to search for answers and must respond from developing memory.
In short, learners should NOT attempt to do all sets in a short time due to the intensity of concentration required. At least a short break should occur between sets. Learners with English as their second language may need to work through tutorials multiple times.
What kind of feedback does the learner receive?
In some tutorials, a flashing screen indicates a correct response. In all tutorials, a correct response advances to the next frame and a percent correct score appears on the screen as the learner works through the tutorials. If the percent correct score falls below a set threshold (e.g., 50%), the learner may be automatically returned to the beginning of that set to try again.
Do the tutorials cost the learner anything?
Many of the tutorials are free. As the learner works through the sets, records of time engaged and percent correct scores are collected in a secure location for use by the author for refinement of the content. Technical and privacy issues prevent an instructor from viewing learners' scores to verify course performance.
How can instructors assign the tutorials to learners and verify performance at a minimum level of proficiency?
Option 1: The instructor directs learners to complete the free tutorials. The instructor then composes a posttest, administers it during a class meeting, and scores it. Besides the time and effort spent in creating, administering, and scoring these tests, this approach consumes precious class time.
Option 2: An easy and inexpensive solution is for the instructor to direct the webmaster to deliver performance records directly by email. These records can be sent on a custom schedule aligning with assignment deadlines. Because providing this service requires the webmaster time and effort, each student or workshop member is required to pay a small fee (e.g., $5.00) negotiated by the instructor and webmaster.
To set up delivery of performance records for your students/participants, please send a message here.
To learn more about the powerful technology of automated interactive instruction, please CLICK HERE.
To ask questions about any of the above, please send a message here.
Click Here to return to the Homepage