Augmenting a web-based learning environment through blending formative assessment services

  • Authors:

  • I-Ching Chen;Dong-Her Shih;Shueh-Cheng Hu

  • Affiliations:

  • Department of Information Management, National Yunlin University of Science & Technology, Taiwan;Department of Information Management, National Yunlin University of Science & Technology, Taiwan;Department of Computer Science and Communication Engineering, Providence University, Taiwan

  • Venue:
  • Journal of Web Engineering
  • Year:
  • 2010

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Abstract

Web-based training gained popularity due to pervasive hypertext information systems, as well as its flexibility of time and place. However, the lack of orientation and interactions leads to higher dropout rates in those self-directed learning environments. From the perspectives of learners, formative assessment generates criticism and suggestions that guide them toward ultimate learning goals, which improves their sustaining rates in self-directed learning environments. This research work aims to investigate how a Webbased learning platform can blend external formative assessment services to foster learning activities as well as facilitate interactions between learners and mentors. Besides proposing a conceptual model, a proof-of-concept prototype has been developed, in which both fully-automatic and human-involved formative assessment works could be blended into a self-paced, Web-mediated learning process. An experiment indicated that the prototyped e-learning context did help to sustain learners. The result of this research implies that, with abundant pedagogical Web services in an open framework, high priced elearning resources could be easily shared and flexibly orchestrated to fulfill various educational goals.