Title: Examining the learning outcomes of elderly through multimedia teaching system in Taiwan

Authors: Su Fen Chen

Addresses: Dir. of Department of Education, Keelung City Government, 8F., No. 164, Sec. 2, Anle Rd., Anle District, Keelung City 20402, Taiwan; PhD School of Social Service of Fordham University, 33 W. 60th Street, New York, NY 10023, USA

Abstract: The elderly often fear technology products in Taiwan, because the complexity of technology and the lack of information create barriers for the elderly to use technology. The trends of an aging population and digital product advances mean that new technology products can enrich elderly lives, if learning barriers can be overcome. This study utilises quasi-experimental design and a multimedia teaching system (MTS) as an intervention programme. Seventy-nine older adults (over 65 years old) participated in this study; 39 older adults belonged to the comparison group, and the other 40 were in the experimental group. Subjects' post-test scores were used for evaluating the learning outcome after implementing the intervention programme. The study shows that elderly using MTS improved their learning outcomes significantly more than others who did not. The elderly who received both the MTS and played speed-controlled instruction on their own improved more than those only receiving the MTS. This outcome will benefit those who use technology-based learning among the elderly.

Keywords: elderly; multimedia teaching system; human information processing; cognitive load.

DOI: 10.1504/IJASS.2017.088904

International Journal of Applied Systemic Studies, 2017 Vol.7 No.1/2/3, pp.1 - 12

Received: 09 Aug 2016
Accepted: 19 Jan 2017
Published online: 02 Jan 2018 *

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