Both the A-T model and PSI are similar in that they require students to be motivated learners. I agree with others who say these models may not be a good fit for K-12. There is a certain level of maturity students need before they can be responsible for their own learning. Both models de-emphasize lectures – which is one of the more prominent similarities.
One of the major differences I see is that the A-T method introduces the Small Assembly Session (aka “groups”) whereas the steps in the PSI method do not involve students assembling with other students in a small group. Also, the PSI method may enable students to work more at their own pace than the A-T method. If there are specifics dates/times where students gather for a Small Assembly Session or General Assembly Session – students may need to have mastered certain topics before these assemblies. For example, students might be required to take a quiz in the SAS – so they would have to be prepared – so I don’t think it enables the student to move entirely as his/her own pace. (Although more so than the traditional lecture format)
Both methods require a great deal of time and preparation on the instructor’s part. Whether time is spent developing media for the A-T method or time is spent developing written study guides for PSI – both require a lot of time and work. Maybe more work than preparing for a lecture…but that would depend on the instructor.
What are your initial reactions to PSI and A-T? What are barriers to their use? What benefits might be expected for those who overcome the barriers?
One major barrier would be the time it takes to prepare materials – assessments, study guides, audio or video multimedia. However, if the content does not change frequently, once instructors have taken the time to develop these materials, they could re-use them for one or more semesters (or years, etc) in the future. The obvious benefit – preparation time for the course when taught in the future will be significantly less.
Another barrier would be cost of resources – whether human or technology. The PSI method requires a proctor to give tests/tutoring/feedback – the human factor can be replaced by self-grading exercises/assessments taken online, however costs are also involved in that scenario. Costs may be involved in the following: software, server hardware, human resources needed to develop online assessments. The same applies to the A-T method – you would need the same technology and human resources to develop the audio/video tutorials and interactive activities.
Would you attempt to use PSI or A-T with the students you are currently teaching or hope to teach in the future? Why or why not? Could elements of PSI or A-T be modified so that they would work with your current/future students?
I definitely see myself using both models – I envision an integration of the two models. I see myself putting into action the PSI model and replacing or supplementing the written “study-guide” components with audio/video tutorials. It would definitely work for any type of online training or course. Since we have a multitude of technology resources – even the “group” components of A-T can be incorporated in the online environment.
Since we're taking learning theories/models that were not necessarily created with the Web in mind and turning them into Web modules, what Web-based tools or resources could be leveraged to carry out these learning theories/models online?
- Blackboard (LMS): can be used for free at Course Sites. Contains a multitude of tools used to deliver content and assess students.
- iSpring: the free version allows you to convert PowerPoint presentations into Flash making them “web friendly.” The vendor also provides a free version of their QuizMaker software which enables the creation of flash quizzes which can be imported into an LMS or simply placed out on the web.
- Audacity: this is a free tool that we use extensively at UNCG. You can create and edit audio files using this software.
- Microsoft Movie Maker: easily create movies using your own slides, images and video footage. Create a “digital story.”
- Google+ : use the "hangouts" feature to have synchronous group sessions.
