In another lecture we were tasked with finding a research question to our topic and think about different complexities that might occur on our planned project. Overall my project explores the optimal design of instructional materials, focusing on illustrated, animated, and video instructions. The central problem I aim to address is determining the most effective format for teaching motor skills.
Primary Research Question
My primary research question could be:
„Are animated instructions alone superior for motor skill learning, or does a combination of illustrated and video instructions yield better results?“
To answer this, I will investigate the efficiency, clarity, and learner preference for each type of instructional design. The ultimate goal is to provide evidence-based recommendations for creating the most effective instructional materials for motor skill education.
Complexities in the Project
After a recent discussion with a colleague, I’ve identified several complexities in my project that need careful consideration:
- Varied Skill Levels: One significant challenge is that people have different levels of skill with their hands, which could impact the results of experiments involving tasks like origami folding or knot tying. To account for this, I need to consider a diverse group of participants with varying skill levels.
- Interdisciplinary Perspectives: To find the best ways to teach motor skills, I must explore different viewpoints from fields such as education and psychology. This will help in understanding the cognitive and behavioral aspects of learning motor skills and how instructional materials can be optimized accordingly.
- Learner Preferences: Individual preferences play a crucial role in learning. Some learners might favor illustrated instructions for their simplicity and ease of reference, while others might prefer the dynamic and detailed nature of video or animated instructions. Balancing these preferences and determining which method provides the most overall benefit will be key.
