Effects of Free Learner Control with Quick Overviewing in Technology-mediated Learning

Abstract

The degree of learner control is a crucial design element of flexible learning systems. An effective system must provide the capability for the learner to exercise control over the sequencing and pacing of the content. Quick overviewing is a form of scanning before reading. It improves reading comprehension of especially a large amount of information. A careful overview saves precious time and the ability to overview means students do not have to read everything when studying (Harvey, 1998). Although it has not generally been considered as a formal study phase, our study has revealed that it is an important factor in planning and organising a learning strategy. This paper investigated the effects of quick overviewing and different control methods on learners' performance. Learners for the research were divided into two groups: free-control group (FCG) and restricted-control group (RCG). The study results suggested that quick browsing together with free navigation control positively influenced the learning performance.