Interactive Software Evaluation and Application in e-Learning Materials
I evaluate the usability and viability of learning tools, and find new ways of presenting content, particularly with interactive tools that allow for active learning.
It is an ongoing aspect of my role to looked into alternatives that can be integrated in our LMS, in consultation with the Learning Environments team.
An example of this work was the phase out of one type of interactive software and the use of a new tool.
SCOPE
A piece of interactive software was being phased out and an easy to use alternative needed to be committed to, tested and implemented.
I was asked to find alternatives to one type of interactive software that was planned to be phased out.
MY ROLE
My role was to investigate and test alternatives. I designed a new unit site using the new software. A colleague tested my site for me and created a summary page and progress bar. My work exploring and evaluating the new tool, and developing related content and activities was endorsed by the Subject Matter Expert. The content of all of these compliance modules must be in line with safety and academic integrity policy, procedure and regulation. All of the modules were tested by experts in the departments to ensure their accuracy.
WHAT WAS PRODUCED
There was a 90% drop in enquiries to the Unit Chair in the Safety Induction Units. There was a 3% increase in the marks on the final assessment for the Academic Integrity Unit. I was asked to present my learning design at numerous committee meetings in the University and to teach the technology and learning design pedagogy to academic staff.
OUTCOME
The learning design using the new tool was well received. Staff from across the University asked for access to the site to see my work. The Subject Matter Expert asked for all Safety Induction Units to be designed the same way. The Academic Integrity Module was also converted to the same design. I also worked closely with committee members on the phase out of the old software – including transitioning unit sites, assisting Unit Chairs and working to obtain a useful export of all content from the old software.
Adult Learning Methodology:
The design of these units was based on constructive alignment, where the students build on their knowledge and do activities as they progress. The activities were integrated in the content and were integral to the learning journey, being closely related to the content. The content and activities were easy to use and the design was intuitive to navigate. With a good learning experience students feel more engaged. With engagement comes more effective learning.
