What is Information Processing Model

Technology provides many solutions to meet diverse learning needs. Not all students learn the same way so it is important to model and scaffold various strategies, and to offer alternatives when teaching online. This chapter highlights appropriate online teaching practices identified in research and the relationship to learner needs illustrated by data from 132 undergraduate students obtained using the Learning and Study Styles Inventory (LASSI). Of the areas assessed by the LASSI instrument students in this sample from a large university demonstrated concentration as one area of strength. Problem areas included (a) selecting main ideas, (b) test strategies, and (c) motivation. Areas requiring extensive remediation were (a) information processing, (b) attitude, (c) self-testing, (d) study aids, and (e) time management. Appropriate teaching strategies for helping the students to improve are provided. The implications are that many students have serious shortfalls in learning skills, and that instructors need to assess and scaffold student success.