Education Commons^™

Developing Knowledge For Real World Problem Scenarios : Using 3d Gaming Technology Within A Problem-Based Learning Framework, Michael Garrett

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

Problem-based learning is an instructional strategy that emphasises active and experiential learning through problem-solving activity. Using gaming technologies to embed this approach in a three-dimensional (3D) simulation environment provides users with a dynamic, responsive, visually engaging, and cost effective learning experience. Representing real world problems in 3D simulation environments develops knowledge and skills that are applicable to their resolution.

The Simulation, User, and Problem-based Learning (SUPL) Design Framework was developed to inform the design of learning environments which develop problem-solving knowledge for real world application. This framework identifies design factors relative to the user, the problem-solving task, and the 3D …

Development, Implementation And Evaluation Of An Interactive Multimedia Instructional Model : A Teaching And Learning Programming Approach, Kacha Chansilp

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

This study sought to explore the outcomes from the use of a dynamic interactive visualisation tool among novice programmers in an introductory computer programming course. The proposed model, Dynamic Interactive Visualisation Tool in Teaching C (DIVTIC), was designed to use multimedia and visual imagery to provide learners with a step-by-step representation of program execution in the C language as a means of enhancing their understanding of programming structures and concepts. DIVTIC was designed to support constructivist learning principles and combined collaborative and visualisation learning strategies with use of the Internet and the World Wide Web to support the learning of …

What Features Of Interactive Multimedia Technology Maximise The Motivation Of Primary School Aged Children Learning Music Theory?, Nick Netis

Theses : Honours

This study was conducted to find out what features of interactive multimedia elements best engage children between the ages of 8 and 12 in the process of learning music theory. Previous research into similar areas has indicated that multimedia technologies, such as CD-ROM, arc advantageous in teaching musical theory. A commercially available software application, Musicolour, that uses multimedia delivery of musical theory lessons, was analysed to identify the elements that the students found motivating. These features included the use of a combination of audio cues, graphical cues and interactivity. The findings were analysed to determine which multimedia elements or combination …

Young Children's Collaborative Interactions In An Educational Computer Environment, Mohamad I. Shahrimin

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

This study investigated the collaborative interaction patterns exhibited by five-year old pre-primary children in an educational computer environment. The case study method was used in one pre-primary centre in metropolitan Perth, Western Australia, to examine the patterns of collaborative interaction among young children whilst engaged with the computer. The one event case study was of the interactions exhibited by pre-primary children whilst engaged, in dyads, with the computer within a naturalistic classroom environment. This study involved three phases of data collection. Phase I consisted of observations and videotaping sessions, compilation of written observations, narrative descriptions and relevant field notes on …

Mapcast : Real-Time Collaboration With Concept Maps, Brett Greay

Theses : Honours

This thesis describes the development of the application mapCAST, a computer-based concept-mapping tool that allows synchronous collaboration via TCP/IP networks, such as the Internet The useability and feasibility of mapCAST as a computer-based tool was examined and analysed in a real world situation. Results indicate that mapCAST is successful as a collaborative tool in a situations involving knowledge organisation, but lacks certain functionality that many Macintosh users are accustomed to.

Developing Performance Support Systems For Complex Tasks: Lessons From A Lesson Planning System, Martyn Wild

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

There lacks coherent and persuasive rationales for the further development of computer-based, interactive educational materials, for tertiary settings. Indeed, educational software arising out of what might be coined the “multimedia era”, namely the mid and later 19902, has been marked by lacklustre products with an emphasis in development and evaluation placed largely on technological issues (such as the use of video, sound and animations). As such, the rapid increase in commercially available (usually CD based) products has generally met a cool adoption from academics and educationalists, with both these groups often bemoaning the paucity or non-existence of effective instructional design …

Characteristics That Determine The Holding Power Of Computer-Based Exhibits At Scitech Discovery Centre, Victoria Dodds

Theses : Honours

Scitech Discovery Centre is a hands-on science and technology centre located in the city West Complex, West Perth. The centre contains over 160 interactive exhibits including a number of computer-based exhibits that cover topics not easily incorporated in standard interactive exhibits. The problem considered in this study was the observed low percentage of visitors completing the programmes at seven of these computer-based exhibits. The author used unobtrusive observation and survey methods of data collection, for 245 visitors, on sundays over a three month period. The study was to determine two things, firstly the holding power of the exhibits, and secondly, …

An Investigation Into The Interaction Of Children Using A Computer-Based Adventure Game, Jeffrey Mountjoy

Theses : Honours

This study investigated the types of Interactions which occurred as children played a computer based adventure game. Year six children (N = 15) from five different schools participated in the study and were observed playing the game over a period of three to four thirty minute sessions. Video tape recordings and direct observations were made of the groups as they played the game. Individual Interviews were conducted with each player at the conclusion of the treatment period. Data collected from each of the groups was used to study and the forms of Interaction displayed by players noted. It was found …