Personalized System of Instruction "Keller Plan" & The Audio-Tutorial Method
Similarities & Differences
Both PSI and the A-T Method provide an asynchronous, individualized, self-paced style of learning. The student is provided resources to achieve mastery with both of these models. This also helps maximize interaction between the student, professor/proctor, and the content. In a PSI course, a proctor is available to "tutor" the student, providing feedback to the student as they move through course objectives. As Koen (2005) states, "With the addition of the proctor, as in Fig. 2, additional flexibility is added to the educational configuration, and a heightened sense of presence is possible" (p. 601). A-T differs in that students come together with peers for review sessions. Immediate feedback may not be available with the A-T method.
Both models benefit greatly from the Internet in regards to providing resources. Some web resources can be manipulated and explored, such as the inside of a cell. In a traditional environment, seeing such content would be limited to a textbook or lab, placing constraints on the student. What about higher-order thinking? In these models, emphasis is placed on completing objectives, not applying them. In a course using the A-T model opportunities are provided for peer interaction, which could be structured as cooperative learning. The immediate feedback provided within both models is based around the Skinner's behaviorist theory. As students complete assessments they are allowed to move on or required to go back and review the content to ensure mastery.
Reaction
Providing an independent learning environment is beneficial in many ways. Firstly, students can learn at their own pace. This is useful for those on busy schedules where synchronous learning is not always convenient. Most of my grad school courses are similar to the A-T theory in that there is a weekly objective or assignment, plenty of time is given, but it is the student's responsibility to meet and discuss with peers through reflection and sharing. I like the communication and feedback offered by both models. A strong instructor presence is an indicator of an effective course, especially an asynchronous one. A potential barrier in courses like these is the lack of projects and group work. These assignments let students apply what they've learned and come away with practical applications of course objectives. Another barrier is that students are expected to learn on their own using the provided resources. This level of individuality might be difficult for some students depending on the topic. Those that succeed in these courses would have received valuable feedback from the professor or course proctor. A deeper level of understanding is possible if the student is driven.
Can I Apply These Models in my Second Grade Classroom?
As a second grade teacher, I incorporate a lot of cooperative learning. I like to be on hand to guide students as they struggle with a concept together with their peers, learning from the efforts of their peers. I don't think I could utilize an independent system like PSI or the A-T Method successfully, though I can modify them to some extent. At this age, the desire to do better is very much influenced by positive reinforcement. As an educator I try to do this as much as possible, so the "immediate feedback" component of PSI is something I certainly believe in. Can second graders learn individually? Sure, I've seen them navigate through websites as they researched the water cycle. I saw them watch movies, take notes, and draw photos as they learned precipitation, evaporation, and condensation. What was most beneficial to them was when they got to discuss it with their peers, however, and create something to show what they've learned! In some ways, this is similar to the A-T method, but in my opinion peer interaction is crucial AS they learn, not after.
Web Resources
Creating a website is easier than ever. With these tools one can customize a course that can be navigated by the student. Many options are available for resource integration, like Youtube clips, photos, and audio.
Weebly
Google Sites
Wix
Yola
These models encourage immediate feedback between teacher and student and Edmodo is the perfect platform to provide this on the web. Not only is the design and use similar to Facebook, its completely private for student and teacher!
Edmodo
Who says an indvidualized learning has to be text-based through a website. How about on an interactive poster? Glogster allows teachers to set up student accounts. "Glogs" allow for dynamic display of resources and course content in one easy to navigate web poster.
Glogster
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