Ubiquitous computing and mobile technologies provide a new perspective for designing innovative outdoor learning experiences. The purpose of this study is to propose a formative assessment design for integrating PDAs into ecology observations. Three learning activities were conducted in this study. An action research approach was applied to…

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to describe how and why Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) has developed a system aiming to effectively place students in freshman and developmental English programs. The placement system includes: triangulating data from external test scores, with scores from a panel-marked hand-written essay (HWE),…

This study explores the efforts at Brigham Young University to improve preservice candidates' technology integration using the Teacher Work Sample (TWS) as an assessment tool. Baseline data that was analyzed from 95 TWSs indicated that students were predominantly using technology for productivity and information presentation purposes even though…

Appropriate classroom assessment now tends to utilize formative measures with greater frequency, especially in the early grades and with learner groups at risk of not passing state-mandated standardized tests. Within the authentic context of an action research project, teacher candidates were given handheld computers equipped with data-collection…

Describes a system in which questions tailored to the examinee's capabilities are administered by computer. Enumerates possible benefits of the system, reviews the "state of the art," and predicts potential applications of computerized adaptive testing. (MCG)

This paper describes an approach to large-scale assessment that uses tests that are delivered to students over the Internet and that are tailored (adapted) to each student's own level of proficiency. A brief background on large-scale assessment is followed by a description of this new technology and an example. Issues that need to be investigated…

In this paper we provide a rationale and approach for articulating a conceptual framework and corresponding development resources to guide the design of science inquiry assessments. Important here is attention to how and why research on cognition and learning, advances in technological capability, and development of sophisticated methods and…

Describes an easy-to-use set of computer programs for the generation of multiple-choice and essay examinations in an introductory astronomy course. Program enables the user to establish files of test questions and to rapidly assemble printed copies of examinations suitable for photocopying. (Author/GS)

Reviews lessons learned from experience with computer-aided learning that can inform the use of computers in student assessment in college teaching, describes the experience of two institutions with computer-assisted student assessment, and makes recommendations for developing and implementing effective institution-wide systems. (Author/MSE)

Computing-related programmes and modules have many problems, especially related to large class sizes, large-scale plagiarism, module franchising, and an increased requirement from students for increased amounts of hands-on, practical work. This paper presents a practical computer networks module which uses a mixture of online examinations and a…

Spreadsheets can be a powerful tool when it comes to teaching physics. From data analysis and graphing to animated simulations, Excel[R] is a very versatile program for the educator and learner alike. This paper describes and supports another use for Excel through Reflective Formative Assessment Spreadsheets (RFAS). To illustrate the use of RFAS,…

Between 1998 and 2002, enrollment in American Sign Language (ASL) curricula at the postsecondary level has increased 433% nationally, representing the largest enrollment percentage gain of all world languages. This unprecedented demand for ASL linguistic study has created a wide range of instructional challenges, the most pervasive of which…

This procedure for testing the mastery of programming skills uses online testing and correction. The student is presented with a test problem and is asked to solve it, encode the solution, debug the code, and save it on a floppy disk. The instructor corrects the program at the appropriate points through the use of REM statements. The erroneous or…

This paper presents examples of effective uses of microcomputers to support basic statistics instruction. All programs are written in Applesoft BASIC for Apple II Plus microcomputers and compatible equipment. They have been field tested in statistics courses at the University of Maryland. Microcomputers can be used with color monitors for…

Computer managed instruction (CMI) is proposed as a solution to the managerial problems created when introductory level courses with large numbers of students are taught using a self-paced, mastery-learning approach, e.g., Keller's Personalized System of Instruction (PSI). This paper discusses the educational premises of CMI, the advantages of CMI…