Applying Web-Enabled Problem-Based Learning and Self-Regulated Learning to Add Value to Computing Education in Taiwan`s Vocational School

Abstract

This article describes the design and delivery of a compulsory course in packaged software at vocational schools in Taiwan. A course website was devised and deployed to supplement learning activities in the traditional classroom. A series of quasi-experiments was conducted with innovative instructional designs, that is, web- enabled problem-based learning (PBL), self-regulated learning (SRL), and their combinations. The impacts of these web-enabled pedagogies on students, instructors, and course design were evaluated. The effects of web- enabled pedagogies were mostly positive, thus reinforcing the instructor`s confidence for further application to the rest of his courses. The authors further discuss the implications for schools, scholars, and teachers who plan to implement, or are already engaged in, e-learning.