32. The Evaluation of
e-Learning in a Large Accounting Class
Presenter: Antoinette Flynn, University of Limerick
Description: The
effectiveness of introducing information technology to support learning in a
large-class environment is examined. This evaluation is conducted through
formal teaching evaluations, statistical analysis of assessment/exam results,
and through focus groups. The particular class surveyed is an undergraduate
accounting class with 562 registered students, consisting predominantly of
business students in their second year of a four-year business studies degree
course. The course material (course outline, lecture notes, extra reading,
tutorial solution templates, lab assignments, online continuous assessment
tests, and class announcements) is posted in advance of the lectures,
tutorials, and labs via the Internet at http://www.staff.ul.ie.flynna. Students
have the opportunity to read, download, and print this material at their
convenience, on or off campus. The core objective of the supplementary learning
channels is to improve the quality of student learning and to create a learning
environment where student become self-directed "information literate"
learners, with the ability to effectively retrieve, assess, synthesize, and
critically evaluate information. These additional media also provide a means of
fostering a stronger relationship between staff and students and this should
encourage students toward lifelong learning and increase of overall learning
motivation. Each of these objectives is evaluated from the students' learning
perspective in this context.
