Wing Au

Improving courseware evaluation via the use of a model

To help overcome problems associated with courseware evaluation there are a growing number of support tools being developed, such as models, frameworks, handbooks, and toolkits. This paper presents an overview of a model designed to aid evaluators of courseware. The model evolved from a critical analysis of current and past courseware evaluation methodologies and a detailed examination of factors that may be influential, particularly learning theory and stakeholder interests and biases. The model is structured in three phases Planning, Conducting and Reporting of Results - each incorporating a number of tools and resources designed to help evaluators consider and address critical issues and make appropriate decisions for their specific circumstances.

Use of computers and family life of tertiary students in Hong Kong

Technology has become a part of life for those living in developed countries. The personal computer has changed the way people communicate information and has also caused some remarkable changes in the way we learn, teach, shop and bank. This in turn affects the well being of individuals and families. The present study examined how information technology (IT) has changed peoples lives and how computers might impact on families. It begins with a review of the impacts of computers on the well being of individuals and the family. Then it reports a survey of 170 full-time tertiary students in Hong Kong. Findings indicated that there were changes in the amount of time young people devoted to various activities after the acquisition of a home computer. Conflicts were evidenced in some families as a result of the prolonged use of the computers. Recommendations are provided to assist individuals and families to respond positively to the impacts of computers on family life around the globe.

The online learning community: strategies, problems and issues

Online learning communities are being touted as meeting the needs of distance learners and providing flexibility for on-campus students. Currently expectations are not being realized partly owing to a lack of experience and understanding of how such communities evolve, and the constraints and problems experienced by the learners. In this paper some strategies are identified that will inform designers and lecturers on the creation and sustainability of online learning communities. Problems and issues encountered in the development of a learning community will help to provide further insight into the time and effort needed to develop and sustain online learning communities.

The effect of the CABLE approach on the levels of mental engagement of students in computer programming

This paper reports on the findings of the third of a series of trials (Project 3) which evaluated the impact of CABLE, a cognitive apprenticeship based learning environment on the teaching of computer programming at the National University of Samoa The results of the first two trials (Project 1 and Project 2) had shown that students exposed to CABLE evidenced increased scores on a post-test relative to those taught in the traditional (non-CABLE) mode of instruction. The aim of Project 3 was to investigate the effect of CABLE on the levels of mental engagement of students. The results of Project 3 indicated significant differences, in the levels of mental engagement, in students taught programming skills within CABLE classes, when compared to students taught programming skills within non-CABLE classes.