Other Software : Teaching

Computer software can assist people to learn in many different ways. Two of the most significant are by using Computer Aided Learning (CAL) software and through Home/Distance Learning.

Computer Aided Learning (CAL)

A computer aided learning system teaches a user by presenting her with material to learn then assessing how well the material has been understood :

• First, information that the user must learn is presented. This could be done using text, graphics, videos etc. It may even be interactive with the user making choices about how they learn.
• The system then asks the user questions to determine how well she has understood the material.
• The system reviews what aspects of the material the student has and has not understood. The user will be provided with feedback about how well she has done.
• Future lessons may be tailored by the software to take account of the topics that the user finds easy or hard.

Home/Distance Learning

The widespread availability of computers in the home and fast broadband Internet links means that it is possible for people to study at home, with course material being delivered to them across the Internet.

• Learning material can be made available on the world wide web, to include text, graphics, videos etc.
• A learner can communicate with a tutor by email to submit work for assessment and to obtain help on difficult topics.

This type of learning is particular suitable for people who live in remote communities, who find it difficult to travel to a college or who move around frequently.

Advantages of using Computerised Learning Systems

There are several advantages to using a computerised learning system, including :

• The learner can progress at their own pace. The speed of progress is not dictated by the pace of a class.
• Learning can be done when it suits the learner, not the tutor. This is particularly useful to people who work and study in their spare time or who have to look after children.
• A computer can provide immediate, automatic feedback to a learner about how well they are doing.
• The knowledge of many qualified teachers or lecturers can be brought together in one system.

There is still however some way to go in developing these systems. Some current computer aided learning packages make fairly basic assessments of the student's knowledge. Additionally computer aided learning systems are inflexible and lack the prsonal touch of a teacher or lecturer.

GCSE ICT Companion 04 - (C) P Meakin 2004