M.Ed. / Computers are an integral part of life, and have become integral to everyday functions of work, travel, health, entertainment and study. It is crucial that this technology be utilised to maximum effect. In schools, learners are increasingly required to enhance their computer skills, and at tertiary level students explore ways they can be used to develop and enhance capacity, functions and responsibilities. This study examines ways in which computer technology can be used to teach, so as to benefit all role-players in the learning process, including lecturers, students, the learning fraternity and industry, contributing to a more competent and capacitated workforce. In particular, it looks at an electronic assessment tool implemented by the University of Johannesburg (UJ), intended to enhance and upgrade learning in courses where computers are used. However, with the initial use of system, certain shortcomings were identified which affected its performance. As computer-related testing was considered important in contributing to assessment, it was critical to identify any problems that were inhibiting its optimal performance. To this end, the researcher studied the subdepartment End-User Computing (EUC), located within the department of Business Information Technology (BIT) at UJ. A qualitative phase consisted of two identified focus groups made up of specific individuals from BIT, comprising lecturers engaged in the daily use and activation of the electronic assessment system and supported by information system technical support personnel. A second phase, quantitative in nature, used responses to structured questionnaires delivered to students who had used the assessment tool. The University’s Statcon unit analysed results, and identified problems. Lecturers pointed to the language used in questions and system challenges to teaching and learning, while students highlighted a need for preparing them for the process, particularly calling for a tutorial with class presentation prior to assessment.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:netd.ac.za/oai:union.ndltd.org:uj/uj:6836 |
| Date | 26 May 2010 |
| Source Sets | South African National ETD Portal |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
Page generated in 0.0041 seconds