Effects of structure and interactivity on Internet-based instruction

Internet-based instruction is acknowledged as a method of instructional delivery. However, there is limited research on its effectiveness. This study investigated the effects of structure and interactivity on the achievement of students receiving Internet-based instruction. Structure was defined as the instructional strategy that provides the framework for the learning activity, giving the learner an advanced organizer. Interactivity was defined as the instructional strategy that provides the student the means of being actively involved in the learning activity.;This study used a completely crossed 2 x 2 quasi factorial design, with the pretest as a covariate and the posttest and survey as dependent variables. Participants were registered in twelve sections of Principles of Educational Media at Kent State University. They followed one of four instructional interventions incorporated within the course syllabus during the Instructional Design (ID) Module. Lessons covered the use of the Internet/Web, an introduction to instructional design, and writing objectives. In using Internet-based instruction, Designer's Edge;This study confirmed that good ID of Internet-based instruction improves student achievement of learning outcomes. The effects of structure were the only significant outcome.;This study was an important first step in laying the foundation for future research in instructional design for Internet-based instruction. Future research needs to include other age groups and multiple learning domains. In addition to determining the instructional strategies that are most effective for the Internet, researchers need to determine what types of programs are best suited for this new medium of instruction. The Internet is not the "end-all" answer to education and training.;The Internet is available to so many more people than prior instructional technologies that it has more potential for broad instructional applications. Attention should be given to the developments coming out of the research area of next generation instructional design. The right approach will make the Internet more than a medium for delivery of information. It will truly become a medium for Internet-based instruction.