Evaluation of a Learning Object

Abstract

Fundamental to the development, use and continual improvement of a learning object is its evaluation. In this instance the learning object - a virtual school - was subjected to progressive evaluation. In the first stage, evaluation based on a range of criteria developed through interviews with potential users of the learning object (focusing on their perceived need for the learning object and expectations of how they might use the learning object in the teaching and learning context ) is reported. Subjects were 34 staff from other universities who predicted positive outcomes for learning and teaching. After the implementation of the learning object, the evaluation focused on processes associated with curriculum development, usability, flexibility, educational relevance, actual use, selected teaching style and subjective assessment by the instructor. The progressive evaluation described provides a framework enabling continual improvement of the virtual school. Subjects were 9 staff who reported positive outcomes for learning and teaching when using the school.