Web-based interactive learning and the effects of learner beliefs, environmental preferences, and cognitive loads

The objective of this chapter is to present learner characteristics that mediate web-based learning. These characteristics include personal epistemological beliefs, beliefs about web-based learning, social-cultural beliefs, and preferences toward web-based learning environments. In addition to the effects of these affective factors, another factor that is also addressed in the chapter is the cognitive load induced by different web-based curriculum elements. Based on a literature review and the findings of some recent empirical studies, a web-based learning model is proposed to manifest the contributions of learner characteristics on learning in web-based contexts. Educational implications are then drawn corresponding to the web-based learning model.