4th Teaching & Education Conference, Venice

COMPUTER-ASSISTED ASSESSMENT (CAA): AN OLD REMEDY FOR CHALLENGES IN OPEN DISTANCE LEARNING

WILLEM VAN VOLLENHOVEN

Abstract:

World wide Open Distance Learning is growing rapidly. The North-West University and Unit for Open Distance Learning are not different and the institution has a large component of ODL students. Assessment for such large numbers becomes a challenge and needs a lot of manpower and time. The North-West University and Unit for Open Distance Learning decided to implement Computer-assisted assessment as a means to address the mentioned challenges. It was decided to use Multiple Choice Questions as part of the Computer-assisted assessment strategy. The aim of the research therefor was to reflect on the experiences and perceptions of lecturers with regard to the use of Computer-assisted assessment in an open distance learning context. Certain pedagogical, operational and institutional issues were identified and form the basis of the conceptual framework for the study. The conceptual framework is further strengthen by the Technology Acceptance Model and ADKAR model. A qualitative approach is used and 16 lectures during 2015 and 10 lecturers during 2016 were interviewed. The data was analysed and six themes were identified. The data showed that Computer-assisted assessment (multiple-choice questions) have certain challenges but also some advantages. Recommendations were formulated according to pedagogical, operational and institutional issues. Keywords: open distance learning (ODL); computer-assisted assessment (CAA); Formative assessment; summative assessment

Keywords: open distance learning (ODL); computer-assisted assessment (CAA); Formative assessment; summative assessment

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