Educators and trainers are continually seeking more efficient and beneficial methods of learning. To this end, modern technology has facilitated the development of programmed learning packages, both texts and machines. Content is ordered so that students are led from the simple to the more complex. The material is arranged to minimize or to delete errors during the learning process. Through the use of prompts, cueing, and feedback no part of the learner's experience is left to chance. However, this error-free technique of learning is in direct contrast to a trial-and-error learning, or problem solving approach. In the latter situation, the learner is encouraged to respond more freely to the learning situation. Through random but purposeful behavior, incorrect response patterns gradually decrease as correct response patterns are developed and strengthened. Although these two methods of learning would appear to be diametrically opposed, both methods have been successful in promoting learning. In practice, the two techniques have often been found to be complementary in the learning process.
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