Perceptions and Illusions about Adaptivity and Their Effects on Learning Outcomes

While the research on adaptive learning environments is still flourishing, the relative effect of perceptions of adaptivity has to our knowledge not been sketched yet. Hence, it can be discussed whether program-defined adaptivity is only effective if perceived and experienced as such. In this study, we hypothesize that perceptions of adaptivity moderate the effectiveness of adaptive learning environments and that even the mere illusion of adaptivity can provide a means for improving learning outcomes. We report a pilot study in which the illusion of adaptivity was created while learners were using an online French language learning environment. The results of this study demonstrate that the illusion of adaptivity can be created in electronic learning environments and, moreover, that this illusion affects learning outcomes. We discuss the role of perceptions in learning and possibilities and limits of perceptions in adaptive learning environments.