forcing users to actually read content!!!
May 6, 2008 12:00 AM
The short answer is that you can't really force students to learn. But the top level usually never admits that, so that's not an answer you want.One way to "force" learning is to show the next page only through interaction. I've seen the following methods used (some good and some bad):Hide the Next button and show it only when Timer = 20 seconds or something (ugly solution that only serves to tick off students).Hide the next button and show it after the student clicks on a verification that he read the material (easy enough but it has "nextitis").Pose a question. The next button shows only when the student selects the correct answer (my preferable choice).I've learned more about the Michael Allen approach to eLearning. There are some good solutions out there. One of the better methods is to encourage interaction and base the progression of content based on that interaction.I've done a Word Tips, Tricks, and Shortcuts CBT. While it is nothing more than a page turner, I've put in some exercises and toys to play with. I don't force the students to interact, but I probably should have. If I could do it again, I would have a toolbar screen shot that is the next button. The user cannot progress until after he clicks on the Bold button. If 15 seconds pass, then a message pops up with a hint. If 30 seconds pass, then a circle appears around the button with a message to click on that button to continue. Now, that covers the philosophy. Or at least my philosophy. From a technical standpoint, you can do this with variables or transparent buttons that cover the real button. For example, you can have a Next button that is initially not visible. When the user does something (clicks on a box, etc.), then you show the Next button. You can also have a transparent button on top of the Next button. When the user does something, you hide the transparent button.Something more complicated may be to have variables. Say you want the user to click on four check boxes. You create the variables and then set your Next button to advance only if Var1 Is Not Empty, Var2 Is Not Empty, etc. There are many ways to keep someone on a screen. The important part is to keep it from being just a page turner. An unmotivated learner will find a way to just sit there and click monotonously. I suggest shaking things up by inserting quiz questions and other interactions in the middle.KevinEdited By: Kevin Elmore on 2008-5-9 8:30:18
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