The Design of Web-based Learning Environments Enhancing Mental Model Construction

Abstract

The aim of this research was to design web-based learning environments enhancing mental model construction (WLEM). The target group consisted of 100 students, Faculty of Education, Khon Kean University. The research procedures were as followings: 1) to examine the principles and theories regarding constructivism, cognitivism, mental model, and web-based learning, 2) to synthesize designing framework of WLEM, 3) to design and development WLEM, and 4) to investigate learners' perceptions toward a WLEM, The result shows that five components to design WLEM for effective were: constructivist web-based learning environment, mental model development, learners' characteristics, web-based characteristics, and cognitive factor for web design.