Adaptive learning using SCORM compliant resources

In recent years great efforts of e-learning research have been focused on customising learning paths according to user preferences. Starting from the consideration that individuals learn best when information is presented in ways that are congruent with their preferred cognitive styles, the authors built an adaptive learning object using the standard SCORM, which dynamically related different learning content to students’ cognitive styles. This was performed in order to organize an experimental study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of an adaptive learning object and the effective congruence of this adaptive learning object with the presentation modes and cognitive styles. The sample was made up of 170 students enrolled in two different University courses. The data were gathered by a Cognitive Styles Questionnaire to identify each student cognitive profile, a Computer Attitude Scale to assess the computer-related attitude, and Comprehension Tests. The results indicated that there was a good flexibility of the adaptive learning object, and that analytic and imaginer subjects showed more positive computer attitudes related to a better comprehension of the learning content.