Computer-based learning and assessment: A palaeontological case study with outcomes and implications

Abstract

Development of cross-platform multimedia applications and presentations is now relatively straightforward using high-level programming environments such as Macromedia's Authorware Professional. A case study involving the development of multimedia computer-based learning and assessment applications in the area of palaeontology shows that such materials can be produced on 6–8-month time scales by full-time staff with no previous programming experience. Students using the applications claim to like them and think that they learn the same or better from computer-based learning methods than traditional lecture-based methods. This is not entirely borne out by examination results, and possible reasons are discussed.