Further
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Print Materials Web-Based
Learning Checklists for Planning Case
StudiesChoosing & Using Technologies in Education & Training
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Most teaching involves the use of text, traditionally in printed learning materials and published works, and now in electronic form as well. The technical requirements of each medium demand different design strategies and skills, and what works well in one medium may be difficult to use in the other. It is therefore unwise to assume that pre-existing ‘hard copy’ text can be equally flexible or useable in electronic form, and vice versa.
Print Materials
Everyone is familiar with print, but that does not mean it is out of date. Print materials can be used anywhere, at any time, are easy to transport and relatively cheap to produce and update. They are also easy to use. Print materials therefore continue to be extensively used, whether as the main medium of instruction, as an adjunct to classes, or in conjunction with newer technologies. They can stand alone as guided, interactive materials or form background reference, for learners of varying degrees of sophistication. They demand no technical skills. Print materials do, however, require literacy, and the literacy level of learners is one of the critical factors in deciding whether to use this medium. But print can be used even in literacy teaching, in conjunction with face to face interaction and other methods such as audio conferencing.
Facsimile technology now enables fast transmission of materials - especially assignments - between remote students and a central teaching location. Fax can also be used to provide update material to students, for sharing work-in-progress and carrying out group tasks.
World Wide Web
The World Wide Web, which provides an easy to use location for Internet resources, is developing rapidly as a means of locating and accessing program material and interactive tuition. Learning materials, further reading and pointers to other sources can be located on the organisation’s home page, which can also be used to access discussion groups and to e-mail to teachers and others. Increasingly sophisticated graphics, audio and video material can be accessed through the World Wide Web, thus making it suitable for any of the purposes served by text and still or moving visuals.
The equipment required is a computer, modem and telephone line, but a faster computer and a high-speed modem are needed for a satisfactory service, thus increasing the cost. Many people require support to install the software and configure it to work properly, plus a degree of confidence in computer usage.
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