Definition

The Audio-Tutorial approach is situated firmly within the direct instruction paradigm, as course materials are pre-structured, segmented, and presented to single learners in the order and manner deemed most appropriate by the instructor or an instructional designer. Contrast this model with problem-based learning in which students must decide on and select materials to study, order them independently of instructor aid, and interpret the content within their group. Audio-tutorial methods are behavioral in nature and are representative of traditional instructional design models which seek mastery of specified content by all learners.

Download annotated Powerpoint slides describing the audio-tutorial model (PDF File).

Relevant Examples

If you have created course materials at Virginia Tech that are representative of this teaching model, we would like to showcase your work here. Please contact us with a description of your project so other faculty may learn from your efforts.

• Virginia Tech Grammar Gym (Currently under construction)
  
  
• Audio-Tutorial of Basic Chinese
  
  
• Study Spanish
  
  
• BBC Language: French
  
  
• Mango Languages
  
  
• Livemocha
  
  

Design and Development Tips

Audio-tutorial units obviously make use of sound elements which can be recorded and edited with software programs. Once digitized, sound files can be combined with non-audio content such as diagrams and photos, video, or text. As a final step, decide how to combine your audio and non-audio elements (e.g., web pages, PowerPoint shows, multimedia presentations, streaming media files for Internet delivery).

Recommended Readings

• Postlethwait, S. N., Novak, J., & Murray, H. T. Jr. (1972). The Audio-Tutorial Approach to learning: Through independent study and integrated experiences (3rd ed.). Minneapolis, MN: Burgess Publishing Company.