Testing Student Readiness for the Online Environment

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Thursday, July 13, 2006
This presentation is part of 3: Poster Sessions
Testing Student Readiness for the Online Environment

Description: Learn about a practical content module that requires students to demonstrate that they are prepared to succeed in an online environment before their course begins. The content module addresses fundamental computer proficiency, basic WebCT tools and operations, home computer compatibility, and online time management skills.
Presentation Format: Poster
Topic: Enabling learning: Effective instructional practices and student support models
Target Audience: Course Designers, Faculty and Other Instructors
Appropriate Audience Level: Experienced WebCT users
WebCT Version:
Abstract Text: In the best of all possible worlds, students would arrive in online courses possessing the necessary technology skills, identical state-of-the-art computer software and hardware, and sufficient time management skills to allow both students and instructors to focus only on course content. But alas, in the real world, the online playing field is rarely level. To that end, the Instructional Technology Team at Pensacola Junior College will demonstrate a fully customizable Content Module that will test student readiness for the online environment before they begin course work. The module will allow students: (1) to demonstrate fundamental computer proficiency (2) to manage basic WebCT tools and operations (3) to verify home computer compatibility and (4) to determine online time management skills. Students will be directed to accomplish a series of tasks, each of which builds on the one before it. Tutorials are available for any tasks that students may need help with. The students must achieve a maximum number of points on a test after accomplishing the required tasks, which is not possible unless they have actually done them. The Assignments or Course Content will be automatically released to them based on the test results. This permits a minimum of management on the part of the instructor. Of course, they will be free to closely track student progress during the process if they desire. Feedback from instructors who are currently using the module will be shared and participants will be able to ask questions. The module can be imported into any WebCT course and has been designed to be easily modified. Handouts with step-by-step procedures will be available as well as a limited number of CD's containing the Content Module itself. A website with these same materials will also be available.

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Description:	Learn about a practical content module that requires students to demonstrate that they are prepared to succeed in an online environment before their course begins. The content module addresses fundamental computer proficiency, basic WebCT tools and operations, home computer compatibility, and online time management skills.
Presentation Format:	Poster
Topic:	Enabling learning: Effective instructional practices and student support models
Target Audience:	Course Designers, Faculty and Other Instructors
Appropriate Audience Level:	Experienced WebCT users
WebCT Version:
Abstract Text:	In the best of all possible worlds, students would arrive in online courses possessing the necessary technology skills, identical state-of-the-art computer software and hardware, and sufficient time management skills to allow both students and instructors to focus only on course content. But alas, in the real world, the online playing field is rarely level. To that end, the Instructional Technology Team at Pensacola Junior College will demonstrate a fully customizable Content Module that will test student readiness for the online environment before they begin course work. The module will allow students: (1) to demonstrate fundamental computer proficiency (2) to manage basic WebCT tools and operations (3) to verify home computer compatibility and (4) to determine online time management skills. Students will be directed to accomplish a series of tasks, each of which builds on the one before it. Tutorials are available for any tasks that students may need help with. The students must achieve a maximum number of points on a test after accomplishing the required tasks, which is not possible unless they have actually done them. The Assignments or Course Content will be automatically released to them based on the test results. This permits a minimum of management on the part of the instructor. Of course, they will be free to closely track student progress during the process if they desire. Feedback from instructors who are currently using the module will be shared and participants will be able to ask questions. The module can be imported into any WebCT course and has been designed to be easily modified. Handouts with step-by-step procedures will be available as well as a limited number of CD's containing the Content Module itself. A website with these same materials will also be available.