The Preference Matrix As A Course Design Tool

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The Preference Matrix As A Course Design Tool

• John Paxton
• Montana State University
• Universität Leipzig
• Koli Calling
• Saturday, November 11, 2006

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Outline

• Introduction
• Application
• Evaluation
• Discussion

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I. Introduction
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Preference Matrix

• Developed by Stephen and Rachel Kaplan at The
  University of Michigan
• Based on evolutionary psychology
• Each individual must build a cognitive map in
  order to survive
• A cognitive map allows recognition, prediction
  and evaluation

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Familiarity Matrix
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Preference Matrix
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II. Application
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Preference Matrix Pedagogy

• Connect new knowledge to existing knowledge ?
  makes sense
• Dont overwhelm short-term memory ? makes
  sense
• Material should engage learner ? involvement
• Background of learner must be roughly understood
  ? involvement

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CS 436

• A senior level course that introduces artificial
  intelligence
• Making sense clear objectives, clear syllabus,
  all graded work is related to the objectives,
  clear presentation
• Involvement engaging assignments, classroom
  participation

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III. Evaluation
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Evaluation

• Fall 2004 Spring 2006
• Senior level computer science courses at Montana
  State University
• 2 offerings of CS 436 (33 students)
• 17 other offerings (225 students)

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Evaluation

• How does this course compare with similar
  technical courses?
• What is your level of interest in taking an
  advanced course?
• Did you find this course challenging?
• Were the objectives of the course clearly stated?

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Evaluation

• Were the objectives of the course met?
• How important were the lectures?
• How important were the assignments/programs?
• How important were the tests/quizzes?

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Evaluation
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Evaluation
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IV. Discussion

• What are appropriate research methodologies for
  measuring the impact of the preference matrix in
  a convincing manner?