Developing A Model Of Students' Navigations In Computer Modules For Introductory Thermodynamics

Active learning techniques were incorporated into modules on a CD-ROM and were provided to students in introductory thermodynamics at Texas Tech University and the University of Wyoming during two semesters. The active learning techniques included interactive exercises, graphical modeling, physical world simulations, and exploration. We were interested in how students used these materials, and how we might improve them. In two case studies, students’ interactions with the CD were automatically recorded to a computer file and provided detailed logs of students’ page navigations and their behaviors and performance with interactive elements. From these logs, we described their behaviors and inferred their reading and metacognitive goals and strategies. The analyses were used to propose changes to the implementation and delivery of the materials.