An evaluation of the development and use of a microcomputer assisted system for planning individualised adult literacy programmes in an adult basic education unit

Abstract

The thesis describes the development, implementation and evaluation of a computer assisted system for planning individualised adult literacy programmes in an adult basic education (ABE) unit located in an English College of Further Education. After examining past and current developments of Computer Based Applications in Education, both in general and in Literacy Teaching Applications, conclusions as to the appropriate use of computer-based learning in the proposed context are drawn. Human and hardware resources available in the ABE unit are detailed and appropriate aims for a proposed system based on the earlier conclusions are set out. A possible system instructional model is discussed via details of the current teaching, monitoring and evaluation activities of the unit. An examination of the current theory, practice and literature relating to literacy and adult literacy teaching enables a conclusion that a student-centred approach, in a real world context, using a common core curriculum, is most suitable. A detailed common-core curriculum model for teaching adult literacy is then proposed, following which a Warnier-Orr design exercise of a computer-based system known as MALCM, using the model, is described, from initial considerations through to system testing. The implementation and evaluation of the MALCM system in the setting of the ABE Unit is then described in the form of a case study. The reported and observed experiences of staff involved are analysed and the appropriateness of the case study as a means for evaluation is discussed. The thesis concludes by endorsing the potential for a system such as MALCM but underlines the need for user involvement in any CBL learning management development; It suggests that further development of the MALCM system as currently constituted is non-viable without considerable refinements to take account of developments in the field of hardware and intelligent knowledge-based systems.