Assessment of Self-Directed Learning by Comprehensive Online Test

Abstract

Applied Science for Practice 4, is a biological science unit for allied health science students and focused on cardiovascular and respiratory pathophysiology and medications. In addition to lecture, tutorial, PBL and laboratory classes, the unit has got also a SelfDirected Learning (SDL) components consist of weekly tasks printed in the manual with resource information. SDL activities were assessed by manual marking of two selected SDL from all weekly submitted SDL paper works. This project was developed in 2009, for conversion of weekly SDL submission and manual marking to a comprehensive online test. Quizzes were designed aligning with the SDL contents of the unit and placed on the assessment part of the eLearning built-in template scheduled to be held in week 10. Build in assessment part of the Blackboard/eLearning system were used with XP professional operating system and students made familiar with blackboard earlier the commencement of the semester. In the week 13, all students were asked to provide feedback on their perceptions via a questionnaire relating to their SDL experience and the influence of the comprehensive online SDL assessment on their further engagement and learning. Individual responses to the survey questionnaire were voluntary and anonymous. It is concluded that a well designed content aligned comprehensive SDL online quiz can be an effective method of SDL assessment as well as learning.