Articles:The Worked-Out Example Principle in Multimedia Learning
From unthinkMedia
Contents |
Worked-Out Examples
This is when the formulation of a problem, along with the steps and final solution are provided to a learner. These are design to support initial acquisition of cognitive skill in the associated domain knowledge.
They are typically provided as:
- a principle (theorem)
- worked out example
- one or more to be solved problems
These examples are informative, and the author also states how they are "preferred" by learners. This was based on a test between worked out example and text. I could see how worked out examples would be favored in this scenario.
Experiment suggest that learners using worked out examples lead to hight learning outcomes.
Cognitive Load Theory helps to put this into perspective, while low prior knowledge has 2 consequences
- not able to use domain procedures so general problem solving must happen.
- could not build bigger meaningful chunks. (usually opt for means-ends analysis)
Note: Worked out examples loses effectiveness when expertise is heightened.
Central Self-explanation Activities
- principle based explanation
- explication of goals-operator combination
- example comparison
- anticipative reasoning
implication for instructional design
- use sequences of faded examples for certain problem types in order to foster understanding in skill acquisition.
- Foster self explanation
- Provide a well designed help system.
- Design of provided examples
3 major implications for cognitive theories
- Problem Solving and Learning
- Emphasizing the importance of family.
- Cognitive Load
