A Strategy For Studying Learners Using Advanced Learning Technologies n Dave Whittington n Tammy Dewar

An activity... FINISHED FILES ARE THE RE- SULT OF YEARS OF SCIENTIF- IC STUDY COMBINED WITH THE EXPERIENCE OF MANY YEARS OF EXPERTS.

Study background n MBTI - learning styles incomplete - relationship, communication styles important in online learning n Jan, learners participated in an online discussion group to explore their perceptions

Another activity n Introduce yourself to your neighbour - eg. Name, work background, a pastime n No talking, no sign language n You can only write with your left hand n You have 3 minutes in total

Debriefing points n What is easy and natural for some is awkward for others - eg. Similar to writing with your left hand n This is especially true online n MBTI provides a framework for understanding natural learning, communication, and relationship preferences and how online learners need to flex to be successful online

Results of study- highlights n Learners were successful when they developed strategies beyond their natural preferences n E/I - extraverts derive energy from real time exchanges, introverts from time to reflect n T/F - feelers need space to build relationships, thinkers need space to critique ideas n J/P - judgers prefer highly structured environments, perceivers value open ended exploration

A caveat n We are not suggesting building multiple versions of courses - rather a combination of strategies that do two things: n Consider and accommodate a diversity of learner needs n Prepare learners to develop strategies beyond their natural preferences