e-Learning and the Science of Instruction: Proven Guidelines for Consumers and Designers of Multimedia Learning

13.1. Learner Control Versus Program Control

In contrast to classroom and synchronous e-learning, asynchronous e-learning can be designed to allow learners to select the topics they want, control the pace at which they progress, and decide whether to bypass some lesson elements such as examples or practice exercises. e-Learning programs that offer these choices are considered high in learner control. In contrast, when the course and lesson offer few learner options, the instruction is under program control. Most synchronous forms of e-learning operate in program control mode—also called instructional control. Instructor-led virtual classrooms typically progress at a single pace, follow a linear sequence, and use one set of teaching techniques. ...