First of all it is important to ensure that the technology assessment tools can function properly for the application. Second of all it is critical to choose the appropriate technology tool and understand its function before creating an assessment. Third it is essential to make certain that the students can access the assessment and receive proper feedback in a timely fashion. Of course it is a given that the instructor needs to understand what technology tools are available for assessment and how they function.
While working within the online setting the most important aspects for assessment are the forum, assignment, and quizzes. The ability to provide students with various elements enhance the online experience and allow learners to share their insights.
One of the first things to consider is: does the student have the equipment to use the online assessment tools, is that equipment up-to-date, and is it compatible with the system requirements. Secondly, are the assessment tools user friendly, and do they offer the ability to assess all different learning styles. Lastly, is the instructor trained appropriately to use these tools. If the instructor is struggling or doesn't understand how these assessments work, how could they possibly aid a struggling student?
Jeremy,
Yes! the tool must fit. . . . you are right, faculty do find it very exhausting fighting the technology batt.e
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Gloria,
You bring up an important point, directions should be clear and intuitive. Sometimes we lose the intuitive part!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Allen,
You have a great opportunity to evaluate all the different types of technology. I said this a couple of minutes; I want vendors to deliver technology that does what they promised me!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Susan,
True! I would like a LMS that would be much more intuitive and that the vendors would deliver what they promise ( I will get off my soap box now)
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Lindsey,
That is true. I don't think online learning will ever be the only game in town.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Paul,
You are right. I find that the tools become easier to use and fast to produce good material for online learning. I also still have to keep my skills sharp!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Paul,
We all have to find the tools that fit us best in helping to supplement our students. I don't use the phone because I have had nontraditional students use it as a crutch.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Paul,
You understand this! It is important that all three of your criteria are met! You can't do one out of three.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Francis ,
You are exactly right. Don't you think sometimes with technology we "get the cart before the horse?"
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Dr. Glenn ,
You make so many great points, I don't know where to start! The one I think we haven't discussed was the tool flexibility. I also think we have to look a the interface for both the student and the instructor.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Kenya,
I with you! I love technology but there must be a reason to use it and it has to be practical to use and to extract what is needed from it.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Kenya,
You make three great points. These have to be in place for the technology to be deemed a success!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Jennifer,
That is a great point. What will the technology legally allow you to do!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Robert,
That is right! Your comment about time is on target. Do faculty think about the maintenance window of a LMS.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
MeriAnn,
Yes, it is great when a plan comes together but it does take work. It always does.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
MeriAnn,
Exactly! The learning curve is different for either group. I have had a software that was easy for the student to learn but when I tried to set it up, implement it, and grade it; it was like programming the space shuttle. Good point!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
MeriAnn,
You bring up a great point! time contraints for both the student and the instructor. Touche!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
