20100926 - Goode, Evaluating Quality, Usability & Potential Effectiveness of Online Learning Modules...

Evaluating the quality, usability, and potential effectiveness of online learning modules: A case study of teaching with technology grant recipients at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville by Goode, Christina M., Ed.D., The University of Tennessee, 2003 , 74 pages; AAT 3119283 My Interest: 1) How she evaluated Quality, Usability, Potential Effectiveness. 2) Usability issues. 3) Issues related to pedagogy, instructional design. Action: To read specific parts of the Dissertation in future. Motivation Online learning has become an ever-increasing means of acquiring knowledge. As educational institutions worldwide are trying to keep pace with the demand, faculty are being urged or mandated to move their curriculum online. Research Goal This research addressed * selected factors involved in developing quality and effective instruction, and * how these factors can be applied to the development of quality learning modules that are usable and effective in online teaching and learning. Specific emphasis was given to the pedagogical, instructional design, and developmental support issues involved in developing online learning modules. Methodology Online learning modules (11) submitted in fulfillment of the Innovative Technology Center's 2001 Teaching with Technology Grant were evaluated on quality, usability, and potential effectiveness as a teaching tool. Comments: Methodology was clearly stated in this Abstract. Results Discussion Independent reviewers were in agreement that overall, the modules met the criteria for being quality, and usable online learning modules. However, the reviewers agreed that six (55%) modules did not meet the criteria for potential effectiveness as a teaching tool. In fact, the reviewers were in agreement on the recommendation of only four (36%) modules as effective teaching tools. The developers' agreed as well that overall, their modules rated lower (satisfactory) on potential effectiveness than quality or usability. Recommendation Recommendations for factors to consider in developing online learning modules are provided as well as recommendations for further research. Comments: Softcopy Dissertation is scanned version; cannot copy and paste; difficult to blog about it.