The effects of paired client-server architecture on interaction, achievement, and attitude in computer-mediated course delivery

Date

1999-05

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Texas Tech University

Abstract

This study considers the effects of paired client-server architecture on interaction, achievement, and attitude in computer mediated course delivery. The hypothesis studied proposes that the use of computer mediated technology to dehver instructional content has an effect upon the three variables of student interaction, achievement, and attitude. Through the use of appropriately paired client-server architecture, the technology can be designed to match the instructional task to be accomplished. By finding the best fit between the client-server pair and the instructional task, the effects of the technology can be reduced and therefore will allow students to concentrate on the content. If the technology is not appropriately matched to the instructional task, students must deal with additional cognitive noise that reduces their ability to deal with the content. Variances between student interaction, achievement, and attitude should be reduced when the client-server pair is designed to match the instructional task.

This study followed a 2x2 factorial design to investigate the use of a Mud Object Oriented (MOO) client and server for the delivery of instructional content in an on-line environment. A multiple analysis of covariance was used for the statistical analysis in order to evaluate the effects of the technology upon the dependent variables while controlling for variances due to a student's degree of previous computer experience. The results reported in this study indicate that a reciprocal relationship exists between the instructional task required and the technology used. The results further suggest that in order to improve computer mediated course delivery, consideration must be given to matching the characteristics of the technology to the instructional task so that the effect of the technology on student interaction, achievement, and attitude may be minimized.

Description

Keywords

Client/server computing, Computer-assisted instruction, Telematics, Educational technology

Citation