High-Touch Low-Tech Tutor Tapes

Abstract

Cassette tutor tapes are a simple but powerful instructional technique for teaching microcomputer skills. The media offers a private hands-on learning approach. Oregon State University students use cassette tutor tapes for an introductory microcomputer experience. The method is cost effective because approximately 150–200 students per quarter have access to only four Apple II computers. Tapes produced locally by media faculty are used in an established self-instructional system with minimal hardware and equipment. The tutor tape concept of “Learning by Listening to a Friend” has received excellent feedback at OSU. Nearly all students felt positive about the learning experience and would select the tutor tape approach over traditional group instruction.