The Theory of Independent Study and Transactional Distance- Michael Moore

Chandler Stroup

Short HistoryMichael Moore developed

transactional theory with Charles Wedemyer in the early 1970’s.◦Currently works at Penn State

University as a full professor.◦

Transactional TheoryFocuses on three variables in

educational programs:◦Learner Autonomy◦Dialog◦Structure

Amount of Learner AutonomyStudent is responsible for

conduct in learning programFalls within the two extremes:

◦Autonomous Learner Determined

◦Non-autonomous Teacher determined

DialogExtent to which an educational program,

learner, and educator are able to respond to one another◦ This includes

Learner- to learner interactions Educator-to learner interactions Program-to learner interactions Program-to educator interactions

Examples◦ More Dialog

Conference call

◦ Less Dialog Radio

StructureResponsiveness to learners needs

◦Includes looking at the effectiveness of: Course Objectives Implementation plans Evaluation methods

Examples◦More structure

Textbook

◦Less structure Independent Study on-campus