This study examined learning styles and achievement scores with hypertext-based computer-assisted instruction (CAI) as it pertains to the adult learner. The learning styles investigated in this study were used as independent variables in an a priori manner to determine the causal inference between learning style and achievement. Correlations among additional variables, such as attitude toward CAI, experience with computers, and experience with CAI software variables, were examined in an a posteriori manner. The experiment consisted of one independent variable, learning style, which is a subject independent variable consisting of two levels- the iconic mode and the reading mode-as delineated by the Canfield Learning Styles Inventory. The dependent variable is the achievement gain determined by the difference between the pretest and posttest scores.
This dissertation inquiry was designed to add to the body of knowledge pertaining to the efficacy of CAI for the adult learner. The focus of this study was to determine the need for the integration of adult learning styles into the design of CAI for adult learners. The propagation of CAI in adult education necessitates an investigation of adopting learning styles into the design of CAI to facilitate the acquisition of skills. The investigation addressed several issues regarding the design and deployment of CAI in adult educational settings. First, the adoption of learning styles into the design of CAI answered particular educational concerns about andragogy. Second, the investigation addressed the needs of instructional technologists for content development.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:nova.edu/oai:nsuworks.nova.edu:gscis_etd-1714 |
| Date | 01 January 1997 |
| Creators | McFarland, Ronald D. |
| Publisher | NSUWorks |
| Source Sets | Nova Southeastern University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | text |
| Source | CEC Theses and Dissertations |
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