Developments in authentic learning: A woman's reproductive life cycle

This paper describes the development of a computer-facilitated learning package that integrates the various stages of A Woman's Reproductive Life Cycle integrating reproductive and endocrine physiology. The authentic learning design of the package follows the developmental journey of a woman throughout her major reproductive life stages from birth to menopause incorporating puberty, menstrual cycles, contraception and pregnancy. A core component of the package is a graphical simulation tool, which has been developed to encourage exploration and understanding of the complex mechanisms involved in hormonal regulation of the menstrual cycle which is complemented by anatomical resources of female reproductive anatomy. An initial evaluation of the menstrual cycle module was undertaken to determine future design directions. One hundred and twenty-three second year physiology students participated in the formative evaluation of the module. Copyright © 2003 The Association for Advancement of Computing in Education.