Effectiveness of a Computer Assisted Learning Package for Autism Awareness
Author Information
Author(s): Chuthapisith Jariya, diMambro Benedict, Doody Gillian
Primary Institution: Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
Hypothesis
Does a computer assisted learning (CAL) package improve awareness and knowledge of autism among childcare students compared to a traditional information leaflet?
Conclusion
The CAL package was effective in improving retention performance and enjoyment among students learning about autism.
Supporting Evidence
- Students who watched the CAL package had higher retention performance scores than those who read the leaflet.
- Participants in the CAL package group reported a higher level of enjoyment compared to the leaflet group.
- There was no significant difference in confidence to identify a child with autism between the two groups.
Takeaway
Using a fun computer program to learn about autism helps students remember more and enjoy learning better than just reading a paper.
Methodology
The study involved 32 childcare students who were randomized into two groups: one watched a CAL package and the other read an information leaflet, with their retention performance, enjoyment, and confidence evaluated afterward.
Potential Biases
Randomization may have led to selection bias and imbalance in groups.
Limitations
The study did not validate the questionnaire used and did not assess participants' prior knowledge of autism.
Participant Demographics
All participants were female, with a mean age of 18.25 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.02
Confidence Interval
0.83–12.19
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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