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Experiences from a data-informed approach to configuring online assignments

Faculty Advisor

Date

2019

Keywords

multiple attempts, online assessment, online test, learning analytics, learning management systems, data-informed teaching

Abstract (summary)

Learning Management Systems (LMS) allow for a variety of ways in which online multiple-choice assessments (“tests”) can be configured, including the ability to allow for multiple attempts and options for which of and how the attempts will count. These options are usually chosen according to the instinct of the instructor; however, LMS also provide an opportunity to make data-informed decisions based on data captured by the LMS itself. This paper describes an experience with extracting and analyzing LMS data for determining online test option settings that encourage behaviors that promote learning (and/or discourage behaviors that don’t). The data extraction and cleaning process was relatively straight-forward, but not without some challenges, and required beyond-novice spreadsheet skills. It seems to have been worth the effort, though, as the insights gained led directly to a change in online test administration, and current option settings seem more appropriate and are supported by data.

Publication Information

Orchard, R.K. (2019). Experiences from a Data-informed Approach to Configuring Online Assignments. Journal of Educational Technology Systems 48(2), 276-290, https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0047239519863000. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/0047239519863000

Notes

Item Type

Article Post-Print

Language

English

Rights

All Rights Reserved