aDAPTIVE lEARNING
The articles put forth as reference for this week's discussion focused primarily on the K-12 education system, which is a good place to consider the context of Adaptive Learning as K-12 provides the stark backdrop in it's contrast with our perceptions of "traditional" schooling. In the conclusion of the article, "The Future of Learning", Vander Ark states:
"Breakthrough Intelligent Adaptive Learning™ fulfills all the criteria for excellence in education specified by the U.S. Department of Education, and has proven to be a pedagogically sound, cost-effective, student-centric, and competency-based learning solution. When children experience the sense of confidence, independence, and mastery fostered by Intelligent Adaptive Learning™, they become more persistent and proficient. The increased ability to persist, think critically, and strategize is important tools to foster progress and success throughout school, in college, in their careers, and in life."
This is quite a claim and prompted me to view it with some skepticism. Given the individuality of learners, their interests, focus, and attention, I would hesitate to conclude this type of learning system would work so successfully for all. Especially in the K-12 system, I don't think we can discount the influence of an effective human teacher. I was glad to read the next article, "Elements of an Adaptive Learning System" by Robert Weisser in which he referred to A.L. as "a supplement to personal direction and learning". This is more in line with my current thoughts.
In a nutshell, Adaptive Learning refers to using the power of technology to individualize instruction based on user interaction and feedback. Much like the predictive data technology of online shopping choices, Adaptive Learning predicts the learners needs and optimal instruction level. Students would move through material at their own pace based on competencies met rather than arbitrarily by age or time spent on a topic. In the right situation, I believe it has the potential to enhance learning. It could be a good fit for higher ed. or corporate training.
If applied to my signature assignment, "How to be a Successful Online Student", A.L. could move experienced students through quickly while allowing new students to develop the knowledge, skills, and practices as yet undiscovered. For instance, based on responses, they could do a deep dive into the metacognitive factors which influence attention, memory, and thinking skills which lead to high achievement in online classes. New students would receive extra practice with each competency before moving on to the next.
Overall, this was an interesting concept. It gives me a lot to think about as I move forward in a career of instructional design.