EDTECH 690 Standard: Principles, Theories & Models: Understand many theories and models, choose from among them appropriately, and apply them effectively.
Project Description This literature review was created to fulfill requirements for EDTECH 690. It incorporated a systematic review of the available research on learning needs of the older adult. The literature review revealed a number of ways in which learning can be enhanced using concepts of learning theory and web design. By identifying the challenges and unique ways in which the older learner processes information, a better online course can be developed.
Outcomes This literature review recognizes the importance of using learning theory to develop curriculum. As the review was completed, it became apparent that a good design for older users is a good design for all. One example is the cognitive load theory. Research with older adults reveal that the aging brain has a limited working memory, and that learning can be enhanced if working memory is reduced, using methods such as chunking information, automated tasks, and combining visual and auditory methods of delivery. Efficiency in Learning (Clark, 2006) provided a number of practical ways to reduce cognitive load. In addition to reducing cognitive load, a well designed web course for older adults will include certain key characteristics such as a simple plan, repetition of navigational elements and a good sense of contrast. These ideas are expanded upon in The Non Designer's Web Book (Williams & Tollett, 2006). This paper is now used as a resource for course development for older adults at San Diego Continuing Education.
Challenges A unique challenge was to find the most up to date information and research for this review. Much of the research focuses on how the senior uses the computer and what their current needs in respect to the computer. As technology improves, some of the hurdles which older users face (physical limitations to their performance online, lack of understanding on general computer concepts) may become less of a barrier. Still, the concept of designing websites and curriculum to simplify the experience and to take advantage of instructional methods like cognitive load theory remain principles of instructional design that are relevant to all.
Growth This research paper formed the structure for my online course development. The Moodle courses which I developed as well as the general website for faculty and students were all designed using the principles of design identified in this research paper. As more information is published on the learning needs of the aging adult, this information can be used to update this paper and subsequently to improve the curriculum design of our online classes.
Clark, R., Nguyen, F., & Sweller, J. (2006). Efficiency in Learning. San Francisco, CA: Pfeiffer.
Fox, Susannah (2004). Older Americans and the Internet. Retrieved from the Internet on 2/13/10:http://www.pewinternet.org/Reports/2004/Older-Americans-and-the-Internet.aspx?r=1 Williams, R. & Tollett, J. (2006). The Non-Designer's Web Book, Third Edition. Berkeley: Peachpit Press
Artifact # 3
Literature Review on Effective Online Instruction for the Older Adult
EDTECH 690
Standard: Principles, Theories & Models: Understand many theories and models, choose from among them appropriately, and apply them effectively.
Project Description
This literature review was created to fulfill requirements for EDTECH 690. It incorporated a systematic review of the available research on learning needs of the older adult. The literature review revealed a number of ways in which learning can be enhanced using concepts of learning theory and web design. By identifying the challenges and unique ways in which the older learner processes information, a better online course can be developed.
Outcomes
This literature review recognizes the importance of using learning theory to develop curriculum. As the review was completed, it became apparent that a good design for older users is a good design for all. One example is the cognitive load theory. Research with older adults reveal that the aging brain has a limited working memory, and that learning can be enhanced if working memory is reduced, using methods such as chunking information, automated tasks, and combining visual and auditory methods of delivery. Efficiency in Learning (Clark, 2006) provided a number of practical ways to reduce cognitive load. In addition to reducing cognitive load, a well designed web course for older adults will include certain key characteristics such as a simple plan, repetition of navigational elements and a good sense of contrast. These ideas are expanded upon in The Non Designer's Web Book (Williams & Tollett, 2006). This paper is now used as a resource for course development for older adults at San Diego Continuing Education.
Challenges
A unique challenge was to find the most up to date information and research for this review. Much of the research focuses on how the senior uses the computer and what their current needs in respect to the computer. As technology improves, some of the hurdles which older users face (physical limitations to their performance online, lack of understanding on general computer concepts) may become less of a barrier. Still, the concept of designing websites and curriculum to simplify the experience and to take advantage of instructional methods like cognitive load theory remain principles of instructional design that are relevant to all.
Growth
This research paper formed the structure for my online course development. The Moodle courses which I developed as well as the general website for faculty and students were all designed using the principles of design identified in this research paper. As more information is published on the learning needs of the aging adult, this information can be used to update this paper and subsequently to improve the curriculum design of our online classes.
Clark, R., Nguyen, F., & Sweller, J. (2006). Efficiency in Learning. San Francisco, CA: Pfeiffer.
Fox, Susannah (2004). Older Americans and the Internet. Retrieved from the Internet on 2/13/10: http://www.pewinternet.org/Reports/2004/Older-Americans-and-the-Internet.aspx?r=1
Williams, R. & Tollett, J. (2006). The Non-Designer's Web Book, Third Edition. Berkeley: Peachpit Press