Principles and Techniques of Veterinary and AH Extension

Computer aided teaching and learning

COMPUTER-AIDED TEACHNG/LEARNING 

• Computer aided teaching/learning also called Computer-based teaching /learning, sometimes abbreviated to CAT/L,refers to the use of computers as a key component of the educational environment. The term more broadly refers to a structured environment in which computers are used for teaching purposes.
• Computer aided teaching/learning are self-paced learning activities accessible via a computer or hand held device. It typically presents content in a linear fashion, much like reading an online book or manual. The term Computer aided teaching/learning is often used interchangeably with Web-based teaching / learning (WBT/L) with the primary difference being the delivery method. Where Computer aided teaching/learning are typically delivered via CD-ROM, WBT/Ls are delivered via the Internet using a web browser.
• Assessing learning in a Computer aided teaching/learning usually comes in the form of multiple choice questions, or other assessments that can be easily scored by a computer such as drag-and-drop, radial button, simulation or other interactive means.Assessments are easily scored and recorded via online software, providing immediate end-user feedback and completion status. Users are often able to print completion records in the form of certificates.
• Computer aided teaching/learning provide learning stimulus beyond traditional learning methodology from text book, manual, or classroom-based instruction. For example, Computer aided teaching/learning offer user-friendly solutions for satisfying continuing education requirements. Instead of limiting students to attending courses or reading printed manuals, students are able to acquire knowledge and skills through methods that are much more conducive to individual learning preferences.For example, Computer aided teaching/learning offer visual learning benefits through animation or video, not typically offered by any other means.

Advantages

• Computer aided teaching/learning can be a good alternative to printed learning materials since rich media, including videos or animations,can easily be embedded to enhance the learning.
• Computer aided teaching/learning can be easily distributed to a wide audience at a relatively low cost once the initial development is completed.

Limitations

• Computer aided teaching/learning pose some learning challenges and typically the creation of effective Computer aided teaching/learning requires enormous resources.
• The software for developing Computer aided teaching/learning(such as Flash or Adobe Director) is often more complex than a subject matter expert or teacher is able to use.
• The lack of human interaction can limit both the type of content that can be presented as well as the type of assessment that can be performed.