Accommodating Individual Differences in Web Based Instruction (WBI) and Implementation

Abstract

Hypermedia systems have gained attraction for the purposes of teaching and learning. These systems provide users with freedom of navigation that allows them to develop learning pathways. Empirical evidence indicates that not all learners can benefit from hypermedia learning systems. In order to develop a learning environment, individual differences need to be taken into account to ensure they impact on students' achievements. In this paper, we describe and propose a web based instruction (WBI) program which accommodates preferences of individual differences; learner's prior knowledge and cognitive styles using the three key design elements of navigation tools, display options and content scope are explored. We also add learner's gender behaviour as a third dimension of individual differences.