The impact of direct and indirect pointer devices on learning outcome in computer based learning

Jones, Timothy N (2007) The impact of direct and indirect pointer devices on learning outcome in computer based learning. Masters thesis, University of Gloucestershire.

Full text not available from this repository.

Abstract

The method of interaction with computers in learning applications may have an impact on the learning outcome, since the less direct it is, the bigger the barrier it may be between learners and learning content. It was hypothesised that direct interaction using touch would facilitate more successful and faster learning outcomes than indirect mouse interaction, because the touch interface connects the learner more directly with the learning material. An experiment with two types of learning software, using both mouse and passive touch-screen stylus techniques, was carried out and data relating to learning effectiveness recorded. As a secondary research method, questionnaires were completed to determine participants' attitudes and preferences. Participants overwhelmingly preferred the touch-screen stylus over the mouse. Their attitudes were very positive concerning touch interaction in computer based learning. However, the relationship between touch interaction and learning effectiveness was not proven. There were indications that touch interaction may only be more effective when using software specifically designed for this technique. In addition, it was apparent that current learning environments are incompatible with wide-scale touch­screen usage. Given the overwhelming preference in the study sample for touch interaction, it can be inferred that design for learning applications should increasingly target this mode of interaction with learners. If this preference for touch interaction were reflected more generally among computer users, this would have implications for facilitating touch interaction methods more effectively in the wider commercial computer industry.

Item Type: Thesis (Masters)
Thesis Advisors:
Thesis AdvisorEmailURL
Hapeshi, Kevinkhapeshi@glos.ac.ukUNSPECIFIED
Additional Information: A print copy of this thesis is available for reference use only.
Uncontrolled Keywords: Computer-based learning; Direct interaction; Touch-screen stylus; User preferences
Related URLs:
Subjects: L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB2300 Higher Education
Q Science > QA Mathematics > QA76 Computer software
Divisions: Schools and Research Institutes > School of Education and Applied Sciences
Depositing User: Susan Turner
Date Deposited: 25 Jan 2022 17:17
Last Modified: 01 Sep 2023 12:47
URI: https://eprints.glos.ac.uk/id/eprint/10613

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