Abstract

This purpose of the thesis is to describe the design, production and evaluation of a computer-based multimedia learning program for 5-9 year olds. The first segment details project design, and production. The second segment examines a number of evaluation models available to the designers, and describes how formative evaluation contributed to the improvement of various project components. The third segment outlines the methodology and the results of summative evaluation which assessed the effectiveness of the electronic storybook portion of the program, as used in conjunction with an electronic glossary, on improved word comprehension and story recall in Grade 2 (7-9) year old students. Sixty subjects were exposed to either the electronic storybook with an 'on-screen' glossary, or to the traditional printed book with a printed glossary. The experiment was conducted using a posttest only control group design. No statistically significant differences were found between the two groups in either improved comprehension or story recall. However, the research indicated a more vigorous use of the glossary and interest in word investigation by the children in the experimental (computer) group. Furthermore, comments from students and researcher observations indicated a greater degree of motivation and enjoyment from the students who read from the electronic storybook