The Worked Example Effect using Ill-defined Problems in On-line Learning : Focus on the Components of a Worked Example

Abstract

This study has two goals. The first goal is to investigate whether worked examples are effective in the ill-defined domain with on-line learning and the second goal is to find out which components (conceptual or procedural knowledge) of worked examples are effective factor at the given learning environment. We carried out three experiments in which Korean undergraduate or graduate students were working in three or four conditions of worked examples (CWE, PWE, CPWE, or the control group). While experiment 1 conducted in on-line learning environment did not find any effect and difference among groups and also any logical reason for those results, experiment 2 conducted in completely controlled laboratory setting with less knowledgeable students showed the clear difference among groups by the order CPWE, PWE, and CWE. Experiment 3 in which highly knowledgeable and motivated students were presented the same materials in more controlled on-line learning environment indicated the difference among groups by the order CWE, CPWE, and PWE. The results were discussed within the framework of cognitive load theory.