This presentation will demonstrate three innovative assessment techniques used in the course. Jim Vanides, course designer and instructor, used the WebCT quiz tool to develop a self-evaluation “quiz” that students complete at the end of each week. Students are asked to respond to five questions related to the quantity and quality of their discussion contributions, and reflect on their learning highlights for the week. These questions not only provided a framework for how the discussions were assessed, but also offered valuable feedback to the instructor.

Students created a concept map early in the course. After working through the process off-line and creating a rough draft, they “redraw” their map in electronic format and submit it using WebCT assignments. Based on research by the Stanford Education Assessment Laboratory, this activity allows students to reflect on their current understanding of the science of sound, while revealing misconceptions that may not be uncovered through online discussions and quizzes. A second concept map is created at the end of the course as part of their final course grade.

Each student created an electronic science notebook that provides an opportunity for personal reflection, replicates what scientists do, provides a vehicle for personal feedback, and models an assessment approach that they could use in their own classroom. The electronic science notebook utilizes private WebCT discussion topics, where each posting is a “page” in their notebook.