Programmed learning
Encyclopedia
Programmed Learning or Programmed Instruction is a learning methodology or technique first proposed by the behaviorist
B. F. Skinner in 1958. According to Skinner, the purpose of programmed learning is to "manage human learning under controlled conditions". Programmed learning has three elements: (1) it delivers information in small bites, (2) it is self-paced by the learner, and (3) it provides immediate feedback, both positive and negative, to the learner. It was popular in the late 1960s and through the 1970s, but pedagogical interest was lost in the early 1980s as it was difficult to implement and its limitations were not well understood by practitioners. It was revived in the 1990s in the computerized Integrated Learning System (ILS)
approach, primarily in the business and managerial context. Programmed learning remains popular in self-teaching textbooks.
The methodology involves self-administered and self-paced learning, in which the student is presented with information in small steps often referred to as "frames". Each frame contains a small segment of the information to be learned, and a question which the student must answer. After each frame the student uncovers, or is directed to, additional information based on an incorrect answer, or positive feedback for a correct answer.
, a math programme, are specific implementations of programmed instruction which have an emphasis on repetition.
Well-known books using programmed learning include the Lisp/Scheme text The Little Schemer and Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess.
Behaviorism
Behaviorism , also called the learning perspective , is a philosophy of psychology based on the proposition that all things that organisms do—including acting, thinking, and feeling—can and should be regarded as behaviors, and that psychological disorders are best treated by altering behavior...
B. F. Skinner in 1958. According to Skinner, the purpose of programmed learning is to "manage human learning under controlled conditions". Programmed learning has three elements: (1) it delivers information in small bites, (2) it is self-paced by the learner, and (3) it provides immediate feedback, both positive and negative, to the learner. It was popular in the late 1960s and through the 1970s, but pedagogical interest was lost in the early 1980s as it was difficult to implement and its limitations were not well understood by practitioners. It was revived in the 1990s in the computerized Integrated Learning System (ILS)
Integrated Learning Systems
Integrated learning systems are hardware/software solutions designed to deliver instructional content. The effective delivery of that content is measured, monitored, and maintained with an array of assessment and management tools that may also be part of that system.Integrated learning systems are...
approach, primarily in the business and managerial context. Programmed learning remains popular in self-teaching textbooks.
The methodology involves self-administered and self-paced learning, in which the student is presented with information in small steps often referred to as "frames". Each frame contains a small segment of the information to be learned, and a question which the student must answer. After each frame the student uncovers, or is directed to, additional information based on an incorrect answer, or positive feedback for a correct answer.
Examples
Daily Oral Language and the Saxon methodSaxon (teaching method)
Saxon math, developed by John Saxon, is a teaching method for incremental learning of mathematics. It involves teaching a new mathematical concept every day and constantly reviewing old concepts. Early editions were deprecated for providing very few opportunities to practice the new material...
, a math programme, are specific implementations of programmed instruction which have an emphasis on repetition.
Well-known books using programmed learning include the Lisp/Scheme text The Little Schemer and Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess.