Directing Learner Attention With Manipulation Styles

Abstract

This paper investigates what aspects of a pupil's interaction with educational software are determinants of their learning. The work reported here considers whether the computer interface can be designed to encourage people to plan, to think more deeply about relevant information, and hence to learn more successfully. Findings reported here challenge the universal welcome given to graphical user interfaces. A number of pedagogical issues involved in designing educational software are raised. These suggest that designing with considerations other than ease-of-use is paramount.