Using Learning Objects to Improve Learning Outcomes of Learning Disabled Students in

an Illinois CTE ProgramSeburn PenseJennifer CalvinDennis Watson

Southern Illinois University, Carbondale

Background of Study

• Population: 5 schools in Delta region of Southern Illinois

• Ag. Ed course on horticulture

• Random assignment to control or experimental groups

• Pre and post tests

• Anecdotal evidence

Specific Learning Disabilities

• Millions of students affected in K-12 classrooms

• Types of disorders

• Help through:– Basic English phrases when possible– Illustrations with text– Self-paced format– Include voice over

Learning Objects

• Definition – Interactive pieces of digital learning that address and

teach a specific learning objective

• Should be SCORM compliant• Some schools use SCLO instead• Include three elements:

– Textual– Conceptual– Practical

Using LOs to help LD Students

• TCP addresses the needs of LD students– Textual: using basic English phrases

voice over

– Conceptual: Use of illustrations with text voice over– Practical: practice praxis self-paced

SCORM

• Sharable Content Object Reference Model

• Set of technical standards for e-learning software products

• Allows your learning object to be used with any learning management systems (LMS)

• Uses metatags

• Required to put LOs in a repository

SCLOs

• Sharable Content Learning Objects

• Not quite SCORM compliant

• Still sharable, but:– Can not be disassembled– Can not be edited– Resulting components cannot be

reassembled to the current pedagogical needs

How to Create an LO

1. Think of one topic you teach2. Think of two learning objectives that students

struggle to learn and retain3. Outline a review or activity that students can

work through on their own4. Develop the content5. Use simple software such as PPT or Word to

develop the “lesson”6. Add illustrations and voice over7. Test with students, revise, test again