Mini
Learning Event
Feedback
Feedback
from PRC/UCP Lecturer Mike Willis [notes put into paragraphs];
An
Android and iOS application/VLE was presented. There was some good features
included in this artefact such as the Login, particularly the social media
login aspect. It is a mobile application meaning it is very accessible and does
not tie students down to one location/desktop.
It is
a very content rich application with social media and google integration. The
calendars are another good feature because they allow students to manage their
lessons, assignment deadlines and homework submissions in a simple manner. The
inclusion of sound bites or podcasts can really enhance this application
because it will support the visual aid be adding audio material.
Changes
Reflected
The
feedback received from the mini learning event was very useful and in order to ‘make
the most of it’ it was utilised to better the application. The idea was to create
as perfect an artefact as possible therefore I any shortcomings and possible prototype
applications were identified in the mini learning event they had to be addressed.
The feedback was assessed chronologically and systematically to addresses each
raised point.
To addresses
the concern regarding quiz feedback this has now been fixed. In between each
question the students shall not only learn whether or not the response was
correct or incorrect but regardless of the answer they are provided with additional
information regarding that specific question. This provides the student with useful
feedback as well as a chance to further their understanding regarding the
topic.
Two of the
members who provided feedback also suggested that an audio tab or a podcast
element be included. They believed that whilst the Video and Image
functionalities are beneficial in providing students a clear visual
understanding, some students may benefit from audio material. Therefore a
previous lectures tab has been created this shall allow students to catch-up
with the previous lecture or lesson by listening to an audio podcast. The
benefits of the podcast are that the student can be learning on the go, for
example whilst walking home or on the bus whilst not having to be looking down
at a screen all the time. It simply adds to the mobility of learning and can
help explain certain elements to struggling students.
The
suggestion to include games was particularly useful. It has been provided though
many studies that engaging games and interactive material are superior learning
platforms than text or other media content. Therefore within the side menu a
tab has been included which allows students to play exciting educational games.
During their spare times young students play games or spend time on their phone
so to provide them with an interesting game to play during their downtime can
increase studying periods and should reflect in the students final scores. The ‘About
Us’ tab has simply been moved to the side-menu so only the most functional
options appear in the main user interface.
The final
suggestions were associated with collaborative learning. It was recommended to
myself that a Live Chat and Forum feature would benefit students greatly as
they would be able to engage in discussion, share ideas, view content and support
each other in their work. Therefore a social wall has been added, this allows
students to upload images of their work and comment on the wall to provide
resource links or work ideas. Students are able to follow certain discussion
and vote ‘up’ certain comments by ‘liking’ them. To address the live chat
feature an additional plugin has been included, this allows student to send
live and direct messages to their teacher. The teacher can then respond back directly
for the student to view their reply within the application. Live chat is
particularly useful because it provides a quick and accessible platform for
students to communicate to their teachers in order to gain support and advice.
