Field dependence–independence and instructional-design effects on learners’ performance with a computer-modeling tool

Angeli, C., Valanides, N., & Kirschner, P. A. (2009). Field dependence–independence and instructional-design effects on learners’ performance with a computer-modeling tool. Computers in Human Behavior, 25, 1355–1366.The study investigated the extent to which two types of instructional materials and learner field dependence– independence affected learners’ cognitive load, time spent on task, and problem-solving performance in a complex system with a computer-modeling tool. One hundred and one primary student teachers were initially categorized into field dependent, field mixed, and field-independent learners based on their performance on the Hidden Figures Test, and were then randomly assigned to two experimental conditions. One group received a static diagram and a textual description in a split format, and the second group received the same static diagram and textual description in an integrated format. MANOVA revealed that the split-format materials contributed to higher cognitive load, higher time spent on task, and lower problem-solving performance than the integrated-format materials. There was also an interaction effect, only in terms of students’ problem-solving performance, between field dependence– independence and instructional materials, indicating that the facilitating effect of the integrated-format materials was restricted to the field-independent learners. Conclusions are drawn in terms of how the well-documented split-attention effect manifests itself irrespective of students’ field dependence-independence. Implications of the effects of reduced extraneous cognitive load on students’ problem-solving performance are also discussed

Human-computer interaction and the effect of CALL : A case study

Taking the form of case study, this empirical research describes how the effects of computer-assisted language learning (CALL) differ, depending on types of learners in terms of affective variables and learning strategies toward CALL. A group of Japanese university students used original multimedia CALL material which was experimentally developed. The material was designed to help the students attain precise understanding of the text and familiarize them with authentic spoken English, in order to facilitate their oral activities based on it. The analyses of learning strategies were made with data from their learning logs recorded by the program while pre- and post-questionnaires were given to the students to assess their attitude toward CALL. Also, listening and speaking tests were administered before and after the individual CALL study. Comparisons of the results from these analyses showed enormous individual differences in the effect of CALL. Two pairs of contrastive cases are discussed in depth from the viewpoints of the listening and speaking test results, the attitude toward CALL and the actual use of CALL

Accommodating the Needs of Field Dependent Learners in Simulation Gaming Environments

The field dependency and independency cognitive style affects the academic performance of students. It has been generally accepted that the needs of field dependent students could be accommodated in learning environments. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of two instructional support features (model transparency and feedback) on the performance of field dependent and field independent students in a Web-based simulation environment. In this study, there were two treatment groups. One group, consisting of 14 participants, received a black-box simulation (no model transparency) with no feedback (black-box + no feedback), and another group, consisting of 8 participants, received a glass-box simulation (with model transparency) with feedback feature (glass-box + feedback). The model transparency was provided in text-only format. The feedback was diagnostic and immediate. To assess the participants’ cognitive style, the Group Embedded Figures Test (GEFT) was implemented. The participants’ achievements were evaluated with a performance assessment method that showed the near-transfer skills. The results of this study revealed that the simulation performance was similar for both the participants interacting with the glass-box simulation with feedback feature and the participants interacting with the black-box simulation with no feedback feature. There was no statistically significant correlation between participants’ degree of field independency (GEFT scores) and their simulation performance. Finally, there was no interaction between the treatments and the cognitive style of participants. Significant performance differences were reported in the literature for field dependent and field independent students in learning environments. The results of this study were contradictory to the literature review. Directions for future research are discussed

Assessing the perceived impact of Computer-Assisted Instruction on physical therapy education

Computer Assisted Instruction (CAI) is becoming more common in allied health education. Research on CAI has provided mixed results. The purpose of this study was to compare uses of CAI in entry-level physical therapist (PT) and physical therapist assistant (PTA) programs. Secondary purposes included determining faculty attitudes toward CAI, determining how faculty select and evaluate CAI, and describing faculty perceptions of CAI and the computer-based licensing exam. Results indicate no significant differences in the amount of CAI in PT and PTA programs. Positive aspects reported include improved knowledge of technology and improved independence with information gathering. Negative aspects reported include cost and lack of time for integration. Respondents indicate that CAI can develop higher-level thinking skills when designed and integrated appropriately, however respondents agree that psychomotor skills should not be taught via CAI. Respondents were unsure whether high or low aptitude students benefit more from CAI, and they were unsure whether one type of learning style (auditory, visual, or kinesthetic) benefits more. Results indicate that programs do not have formal selection criteria, and evaluation procedures reported included student outcomes and course evaluations. Finally, 64% of PT and 56% of PTA respondents indicated CAI adequately prepares students for the licensing exam, and 34% of PT and 40% of PTA respondents indicated the computer-based licensing exam influenced their decision to integrate CAI. Six concepts describing participant\u27s perceptions of CAI in physical therapy education emerged from qualitative data. They were: (1) CAI develops computer skills, (2) CAI is an instructional tool, (3) CAI improves communication, (4) CAI can provide factual learning, but the instructor must use the CAI so that higher-level skills are attained, (5) Instructors must consider the context before integrating CAI, and (6) CAI has limitations