Learner Factors

Theories & Factors That Affect Student Learning
Ashley Coffman
Learner Factors Analyzing the student learners is a means to identify the learner characteristics that will likely impact the process and outcomes of the learning experience.
Factors	Description	Resource or Constraint		Initial ideas for maximizing positive factors and minimizing negative factors
Factors	Description	+	-
Age/Academic Range	16-18; mostly juniors	+		Mature group of students; set expectations high
Sex Distribution	48% female, 52% male	+		Boys generally have stronger analytical and mathematical skills whereas girls typically excel in organization, creativity, and writing; group students by gender and ability to create best synergy.
Ethnic Diversity	About 25% minority	+		Not a factor in this project.
Educational Level	High school juniors and seniors; advanced students	+		Interested in connecting classroom material to the real world. Encourage self-directed learning and advocate accountability.
Disability or Impairment	ESL		-	Pair ESL student with a bilingual classmate.
Developmentally Appropriate	Consistent with ability level	+		Advanced project designed specifically for this level of students
Prerequisite Knowledge	Computer skills; Algebra and basic trigonometric functions	+		Conduct a “refresher” lesson on the related trig functions the day before the project begins.
Related Experience	Related science courses Research, presentation skills	+		Schedule project after completion of their junior English research project to ensure they have proper research skills.
Perception of Role as Student	Curious, motivated learners	+		Discuss how computers can facilitate self-directed learning.
Motivation for Learning	Applying knowledge to the real world; integrating technology	+		Opportunity to use technology will allow students creative outlets not normally found in a structured math class.
Attitude Toward Subject	Positive, motivated	+		Make the learning experience positive and fun. Keep them engaged in their learning.
Expectations from Course	Enhance problem-solving and critical-thinking skills in relation to mathematics; prepare for Calculus and college-level math courses	+		Connect this type of higher-order learning to what they should expect at the college level (nearly all these students will attend college).
Competitiveness	Very competitive	+		Channel competitive drive into work ethic. Encourage collaboration in addition to healthy competition.
Environmental Factors Analyzing the environment is a means to identify the issues that will impact the process of the design and production, implementation, and outcomes of the learning experience.
Factors	Description	Resource or Constraint		Initial ideas for maximizing positive factors and minimizing negative factors
Factors	Description	+	-
*Design and Production Factors*
Budget Available	None	+		No funding needed.
Materials Required	Textbook, Internet Explorer, PowerPoint, Excel, Word, MovieMaker	+		Ensure all laptops have all software installed for full creative options.
Production Equipment Available	Laptops, projector, digital cameras, video cameras	+		With access to resources, students have more creative options with presentation
Time for Design and Production	3 90-minute class periods		-	Might have difficult time securing computer lab for six consecutive days (3 for A day classes and 3 for B day classes); secure lab far enough in advance
Department Technology Requirements	Computer lab; reliable network/Internet connection	+		Check network connection prior to lab use. Know who to contact in case something does go wrong.
*Implementation Factors*
Class Size	25-30 students		-	Hold a Q&A session in group setting each day to minimize answering repeated questions and maximize quality time spent facilitating project.
Class Period Length	90 minutes; A/B Block Schedule	+		Sufficient time during class to research, collaborate, and create presentation.
Location	Computer Lab	+		Different learning environment gives students a break from the norm. Make sure students know where to report to class.
Seating Arrangement	Tables (4 students per table)	+		Allow students to easily work with partner and possibly collaborate with another group.
Lighting	Fluorescent lighting		-	Can cause additional eye strain; adjust monitor position to reduce glare, increase screen resolution, and adjust brightness/contrast.
Temperature	Extremely cold		-	Remind students to dress appropriately for the lab (bring jackets, sweatshirts, etc.).
Noise	Quiet working environment	+		Play classical music in background to stimulate thinking.
Equipment	30 laptop computers; projector	+		Each student will have their own laptop for research and production which will increase efficiency (no down time).
Technology Support	Limited (only a LAN Tech)		-	No immediate technical support. Only there to troubleshoot network problems but must submit work order in advance.. Have an alternate plan in case some computers do not connect to network or if network is down.
*Outcome Factors*
State Requirements	TEKS 111.35.c.p.3.abde	+		Limited TEKS met with project.
Employer Needs	Ensure technology is implemented in the math curriculum.	+