A Computer-Based Instructional Support Network: Design, Development, and Evaluation

Abstract : The objective of the work was to design, develop, and evaluate an experimental, computer-based Instructional Support Network (ISN) consisting of an electronic communication network linking students to instructional resources such as instructors and instructional materials. A key element of the ISN concept was to provide very simple, easy to use workstations for instructor and students, enabling effective system use with minimal training and technical support. Without outside support, users were successfully able to set up and operate prototype workstations in less than two hours. During a field test, the ISN was used to link continuing education calculus students with a tutor at the Naval Postgraduate School. The majority ISN messages during this test were administrative (72.9%), 17.3 percent were technical, and 9.8 percent were motivational. Students initiated 40.9 percent of messages, and the tutor initiated the remainder. Some evidence shows that use of the ISN reduced student attrition and helped students with weak mathematics background. (KR)