What is programmed learning?
Programmed learning is a technique of organizing instruction so that after each new concept the reader is asked a question that reinforces the concept. Instruction proceeds by lesson question answer lesson question answer . . . . . The lessons are short; the questions are easily answered. The constant feedback results in active learning on the part of the reader and better comprehension and retention. Many studies have shown that the technique is very effective, especially for beginning lessons in technical subjects. When a student keeps mentally active by answering each question and checking the answer, learning is much faster. Programmed learning was especially popular in the 1960s and 1970s. Usually it was implemented using printed books (with the lesson, question, and answer separated by thick printed bars or each printed on a separate page.) This was awkward. At big universities it was implemented on main frame computers with special (and very expensive) terminals for the students
