The Derivation, Implementation and Evaluation of a Model for CBL Specification and Design

Abstract

This thesis details the derivation and implementation of a Computer Based Learning (CBL) design and development model UDRIPS, UDRIPS stands for Universal picture; Definitions; Rules; Illustrative examples; Problem solving; Summary. The need for the model was highlighted as a result of involvement in the Teaching and Learning Technology Programme, Phase Two (TLTP-2) project W.I.S.D.E.N. (Wide-ranging Integrated Software Design Education Network). Courseware produced within the consortium covered several topics within the area of software design and development. The model was constructed by combining principles from the software engineering and pedagogic areas. This allowed courseware to be built which adhered to basic software engineering principles but which was also pedagogically valid.The model was designed to be an addendum to existing CBL development methods and is intended primarily to enhance the instructional design phases of those methods. This can be seen to be a mirror of the types of techniques enjoyed by software engineers and which are inherent in the software design and development methods in that field. To test the model, CBL courseware was developed in a topic of Structured Methods, Entity-Relationship Modelling. This courseware formed the basis for a number of usability and learning effectiveness evaluations. Based on the results of the evaluations and further research both the material and the model were refined. UDRIPS, the refined CBL design and development model, was distributed to the members of the consortium involved in the W.I.S.D.E.N. project and their reactions and use of the model observed and noted. The courseware produced by the members was also evaluated with respect to its usability and effectiveness