2. INDEX
Sl no Contents Page no
1 Introduction 1
2 Content
Development
2-4
3 Conclusion 5
4 Reference 5
3. 1
INTRODUCTION
Programmed instruction involves controlled, carefully specified and
skilfully arranged learning experiences. Programmed instruction applies the
principles of psychology and technology in the learning process. The main
objective of programmed learning is to provideindividualise instruction.
Programmed learning is a self instructional and self corrective technique in
which all the learning material is presented to the learner stageby stage
through sequentially arranged smaller units called ‘frames’. The frames are
graded according to the level of difficulty as well as logical sequence. Itis
presented in such an order that it results in the best understanding and
retention.
A programmeis the subjectmatter to be learned by the students. Itis
an instructional sequencedesigned to help the students attains specific
objectives. Programming is the process of arranging the subjectmatter with
a view to facilitate effective learning.
4. 2
CONTENT DEVELOPMENT
The two terms programmed instruction and programmed learning are used
to interchangeably in educational literature. The American educators use to
theme the programmed instruction while the English educators prefer to use
programmed learning.
Characteristics of Programmed instruction
Subjectmatter is broken in to smaller units or frames.
Subjectmatter is presented in the sequential order.
Frequent or continuous responsefromthe student is ensured.
Immediate confirmation of right answers and corrections of wrong
answers aremade possible.
Each student progresses athis own pace without any threat of being
exposed to any humiliation.
Principles of programmed instruction
Goal oriented learning.
Logical sequence
Optimum step size
Active participation and responding
Maximising attention
Student testing
Advantages of Programmed Instruction
Instruction is individualised.
Each student can work athis own convenience.
Student is always active and alert.
Emotional problems can be solved.
Teacher gets relief fromcontinuous teaching.
5. There are two common varieties of programming they are; 3
1. Linear
2. Branching
Linear Programming
B .F Skinner is the originator of Linear programming. So it is called Skinnerian
style of programming.
Characteristics
A linear programming is a straight line programme.
In this programme learning material presented in to a series of
small steps.
Every learner follows the same path in the linear programme.
The content is broken in to small units.
The sequence of steps remains unchanged.
The learner is given a small amount of information.
The learner is expected to composehis own answer to each
question.
The responses of the learner get immediate reinforcement.
Merits
Sudden knowledge of results act as a great motivator and release
anxiety and tension.
Smallness of the frames brings the sub goals within the reach of
the learner.
Repetitionstrengthens the responses and ensures learning.
Demerits
The use of linear programme is limited only to some subjects and
topics.
It affects the imagination of the learner.
It encourages guessing.
Does not develop discriminate power of the student.
6. 4
BranchedProgramming
It was developed byan American PsychologistNorman. A. Crowder
in 1954.
Characteristics
A frame may contain two or three related ideas or
sequences.
Frame is bigger in size as compared with linear type.
The learner moves forward if his responses are correct.
Merits
Big size of frame as well as the branching minimises un necessary
repetitions and responding, reduces the amount of learning time
and fatigue.
This style of programming is helpful in the developmentof the
power of discrimination.
It helps in practicing creativity and problem solving ability.
Branching is most useful in the area beyond facts , definitions and
basic skills.
Demerits
The multiple choice questions provided may lead to guess work
Setting of multiple choice questions is a difficult task.
Branching method cannot provide infinite branch.
Cost of branching programme is very high.
7. 5
CONCLUSION
Programmed instruction is an individualise technique of instruction.
According to Edgar Dale, ‘Teaching’ is a broad , vagueand ill defined term and
‘instruction’ is a purposeful, orderly, controlled, sequencing of experience to
reach a specified goal. Programmed instruction is a sub head under instruction
and represents a morerigorous attempt to develop a mastering, over specified
goals to secure‘insured’ learning.
REFERENCE
1. Trends and developments in Modern educational practices
-Dr. K. Sivarajan
2. Educational Evaluation, Research, Information & Communication
Technology-Dr. T. K. Mathew
