Ray A. James
ETEC 557-01W
Date: 4 Feb. 04
ABSTRACT NUMBER 5
CITATION:
Osei, Monica (2001) Can You Do What I Do? A Case Study of Computer-
Assisted Instruction For Adults Participating In An Adult Education Program. Adult Education Program, Fall 2001, 11(3), 150-162. [http://search.epnet.com/direct.asp?an=5887312&db=aph]
SUMMARY:
Computer assisted instruction shows a significant importance in this study and suggests that with proper software based on one’s learning level, it can be used effectively in a classroom. The study included ages 18 to 80 that showed that computer-assisted learning is challenging and makes students motivated. They like the computer as a learning device because it becomes a motivating tool. However, the users of the computer may not have access to a computer outside the classroom that directs such programs as reading, writing, or math.
The study suggests that more research is needed to determine which software would be effective for various ages. Furthermore, educators should learn more about software developers to determine the most appropriate software based on design, interactivity, and the integration of various instructions. Computer assisted software is in demand in schools.
PERSONAL REACTION:
Computer assisted software in the classroom is currently in demand as students become more motivated to learn. The self-pace concept keeps students on-task with repetition of the activity becoming the dominant end result of cognitive learning. All software companies need to focus on the needs of students.
The interview and observation of four literacy students in the study should have included more students in their experiment of learning. The study shows that the students not in their own environment such as in a correction facility could benefit significantly based on the ideal of isolation of the computer in the classroom and contribute to a person’s attitude that reflects I want to learn. Students who have quit school could also benefit from the use of CAI, because it corrects their activities while learning. The CAI offers positive reinforcement and is especially designed for lower level learners.
Teachers must learn to properly integrate the material to support the instructions to finish the activities. The students that were interviewed were between 2d grade and sixth grade in reading. Most of them did not have time to participate in a regular school session while in High School, because most of them had to work to support their family. Most of the students thought the computer make a good learning tool. Computer Assisted Instruction is here to stay in the schools and computers could be programmed to aid students even with laptops.