Learner‐controlled Learning in the Affective Domain

Abstract

This paper describes the use of interactive video to support the examination by young adults of their attitudes to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), to sufferers and carriers of the disease, and to their own sexuality. Although there is cognitive content in the materials, the greatest part of the activity of learners using the materials is in terms of beliefs, feelings, perspectives, attitudes, relationships and so on. The package is being developed with substantial input from a wide range of counselling, educational, medical and technical bodies in Scotland, and represents an innovative use of the technology as well as a challenging learner‐driven environment for learners to explore their own feelings. That environment assumes that the materials are being mainly (but not exclusively) accessed by a small group of young people in the age range 16‐25, supported by an experienced human tutor acting as referee and providing support in the event that the activities of the learners become too psychologically uncomfortable and threatening. The package may also be used in unguided modes, by young people in groups or singly, and by the general public in an exhibition setting. The materials will be completed in mid‐1990.