THE STUDY OF REQUIRMENTS OF A MODEL E-LEARNING SYSTEM
Author:
Prof. P.V.JOBANPUTRA
Head, Dept. Of Computer Sc.
P.D.M.College of Commerce, Rajkot
This paper discusses the pedagogical, technical and functional requirements which have to be fulfilled to provide a
model e-Learning system.
1.0 Pedagogical requirements
Up to now many e-learning systems consist of several parts and functions (like system administration, runtime
environment, communication, etc.) that are either loosely connected or not connected at all and where no overall
educational principles lies behind them. However in a pure virtual learning environment the learners have mostly total
control of from where, when and how they acquire the desired knowledge. Therefore the learners have to be guided by
the content, the tutors and the system to prevent that they are distracted by too many possibilities. It is also necessary
that the system helps the authors when creating and structuring the learning theme and modelling a concept which the
trainers have to support.
1.1 Learning Theories
Learning results into behavioural change. Each learning activity should identify their behavioural outcomes. i.e. the
module will enable the learner to calculate equations. Or at the end of the learning activity learner will be able to
perform writing over CD/DVD. This means that learning occurs under certain conditions that are specially designed to
improve learning. Let us focus on three different views on learning environments: behaviourism, cognitivism and
constructivism.
1.1.1 Behaviorism
Behaviorism concerns itself solely with measurable and observable data and excludes explicit ideas, emotions, and the
consideration of inner mental experiences and activities and is not interested in conscious (cognitive) control processes.
The brain is understood as a “black box” which gets certain input (“stimuli”) and reacts in a deterministic way. In
behaviorist thinking, the focal point of learning is in shaping the responses of the learner. So it requires the appropriate
stimuli and to enforce the correct behaviour with adequate feedback.
Thorndike states in “The law of exercises” that the bonds between stimuli and responses are strengthened through
being exercised frequently.
J.F. Skinner noted that the learning process should be divided into "a very large number of very small steps and
reinforcement must be contingent upon the accomplishment of each step." Skinner also stated that by making the steps
of learning small, the frequency of reinforcement can be increased and the frequency of being wrong is reduced.
Skinner wrote about "teaching machines" which were mechanical devices designed to present educational material to
students at their own pace and to reinforce correct responses to the material while preparing the student to respond
correctly to subsequent material. He called this method of teaching (whether it used machines or workbooks)
programmed instruction. Programmed instruction is a special type of "interactive training".
Behaviorism is therefore well suited for:
The model e-learning system
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