Computer - assisted instruction (CAI)
The computer can be a tutor in effect relieving the teacher of many activities
in his/her personal role as classroom tutor. It should be made, however that the
computer cannot totally replace the teacher since the teacher shall continue to
play the major roles of information deliverer and learning environment
controller. Even with the available computer and CAI software, the teacher must
insure that students have the needed knowledge and skills for any computer
activity. The teacher also decide the appropriate learning objectives, plan the
sequential and structured activities to achieve the objectives and evaluate the
students' achievement by way of tests.On the other hand, the students in CAI play their own roles as learners as they receive information, understand instructions for the computer activity, retain the information and rules for the computer activity, and apply the knowledge and rules during the process of computer learning.
During the computer activity proper in CAI the computer too plays its roles as it acts as a sort of a tutor, provides a learning environment, delivers learning instruction, reinforces learning through drill and practice, and provides feedback.
In integrating computer program in instruction, use tutorial software associated with cognitive learning. You can also use simulation programs, instructional games, problem solving software, multimedia encyclopedia and electronic books.
