However, students who enroll in such courses must become competent e-learners to receive the many benefits (Macdonald, J., 2004). To achieve competency, learners must have adequate knowledge in information literacy and online collaborative learning. Students who exhibit mastery in information literacy recognize the need for information, are able to identify and locate it, gain access to it, then evaluate, organize, and use it effectively. Collaborative online learning requires students to be able to �practice team working and negotiation skills, group decision making, and task management� (Macdonald, J., 2004, p. 217).
Although it is necessary for learners to be competent e-learners, it is equally necessary for educators to provide effective methods of assessment. Macdonald studied two courses offered at the UK Open University to determine which components of assessment are important. First, �assessment is invaluable as a way of affording students the opportunity to learn at critical points in the course� (Macdonald, J., 2004, p. 220-221). Second, to acquire basic transferable skills needed to be successful, incremental support should be provided throughout the course in the form of frequent assessment. Last, students should participate in the assessment activities themselves through an activity such as peer review. �Assessment strategy can support e-learning development, whatever the subject level of the course� (Macdonald, J., 2004, p. 225).
The technology facilitation standard encompasses the planning and designing of learning environments and experiences. This article refers to important aspects of an e-learning environment, yet Macdonald (2004) cites that the same aspects apply to all classrooms, face-to-face or online. Proper methods of assessment must be utilized when planning and designing any learning environment. When they are, students are more motivated to learn and begin to engage in activities which promote lifelong learning. So, to achieve competency as a technology facilitator, consideration of effective assessment techniques is critical in the planning and designing of learning environments and experiences. Furthermore, Macdonald states that it is especially important in an online learning environment.
As on online educator myself, this article had particular relevance. When instructing students online, communication is of the utmost importance. Definite meeting times that exist in traditional classrooms are not present. Also, without proper assessment, students may become frustrated because they feel uncertain of their progress. My own experience as an online student has allowed me to become aware of these occurrences and caused me to note how my students might feel. I will definitely recall the suggestions offered in this article as I continue to instruct my online students.
Macdonald, J. (2004). Developing competent e-learners: The role of
assessment. Assessment and Evaluation in Higher Education, 29, 2.
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