Evaluating for Distance Learning: Feedback from Students and Faculty.
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| Title: | Evaluating for Distance Learning: Feedback from Students and Faculty. |
|---|---|
| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Thomson, Joan S., Stringer, Sharon B. |
| Peer Reviewed: | N |
| Page Count: | 7 |
| Publication Date: | 1998 |
| Document Type: | Reports - Research Speeches/Meeting Papers |
| Descriptors: | Access to Computers, College Freshmen, Computer Assisted Instruction, Computer Literacy, Computer Mediated Communication, Course Evaluation, Delivery Systems, Distance Education, Evaluation Methods, Formative Evaluation, Higher Education, Instructional Design, Instructional Development, Student Needs, Student Surveys, Summative Evaluation, Teacher Surveys, Teaching Models, Technology Integration, User Satisfaction (Information), World Wide Web |
| Abstract: | This paper describes the development and evaluation of a World Wide Web-based component for a required freshman seminar at the Pennsylvania State University College of Agricultural Sciences. Students (n=170) were given a pre-test to assess their access to, knowledge of, and proficiency with computers. The pre-test was designed to address four broad categories: computer use, ability, and perceptions; Internet perceptions and use; communication preferences; and demographic information. This formative evaluation assessed student needs and helped the project team to continue to develop course content for the semester. A summative evaluation was given at the end of the semester to ascertain students' perceptions of web-based assignments and needed changes for future courses. In addition, one faculty member from each section participated in a phone survey, answering questions about their experiences with the course. It was concluded that using a computer-based asynchronous teaching model is quite different from the more traditional model and requires special considerations; practitioners should incorporate formative and summative evaluations to enhance learner satisfaction, to ensure goal attainment, and to demonstrate accountability. (DLS) |
| Entry Date: | 1999 |
| Accession Number: | ED422879 |
| Database: | ERIC |
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