Summary of Higher Education Session--- Assessment Conference By David G. Brown February 24, 2000 ICCEL--Wake Forest University

Math Emporium Many pioneering studies Mobile Computing Assessment Team Multiple Assessment Measures & Results National Data Repository Biggest Changes re to extent & way people communicate

Measure What?

Types of Effectiveness John Muffo Pedagogical Stimulated interest in teaching & learning? Led to more equity of sections of same course? Improved student persistence? Learning More learning and retention? More independent learners? Better prepared for life after college? Cost Effectiveness Equal or better achievement at less cost? Freed up what other resources (e.g. rooms)? More savings possible?

Measure How?

MEASURES OF IMPACT Perceptions By Students via Formal Evaluations Feedback and Hearsay By Faculty via Formal Evaluations Observed Behavior/Performance Behaviors Metadata re Computer Use Adoption By Others Other Behaviors Outcomes & Student Performance Matched Pairs Over Time Matched Pairs Simultaneous External “Tests”

Seton Hall’s Methods Matrix (Heather Stewart) Metadata Interviews Surveys Focus Groups Diaries Grades/Post-Tests/Traditional

The Jury Is In! Technology Works!

Generations of Researchers have clearly established that….. Collaboration increases learning. Interaction increases learning. Customization increases learning. Time on task increases learning.

Because computer-enhanced courses involve more collaboration, interaction, customization, and time on task (and because in this .com era, learning costs are minimal) computer-enhancing courses is an economically efficient means of increasing learning

Right On!