An Evaluation Of The Use Of Learning Objects As An Instructional Aid In Teaching Adults

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of learning objects in the CD-ROM format for the teaching of introductory American Sign Language to adult learners. A controlled experiment was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the use of the learning objects to enhance student learning. Findings suggest that there was no indication that the use of learning objects on a CD-ROM affected students’ scores at any level of assessment. Reasons for the learning objects not affecting student outcomes were found in the qualitative comments that the students made in the survey. The reasons included: learners’ inexperience in using the technology and the difference between signs being taught in the classroom and on the CD-ROM. Recommendations for the future application of learning objects as instructional aids are presented.