Assessing the Effectiveness of Web-Based Tutorials Using Pre- and Post-Test Measurements

Abstract

Computer technology in general and the Internet in particular have facilitated as well as motivated the development of Web-based tutorials (MacKinnon & Williams, 2006). The current re-search study describes a pedagogical approach that exploits the use of self-paced, Web-based tutorials for assisting students with reviewing grammar and mechanics in a business communications course. The adopted tutorial consists of (1) grammatical and mechanical rules, (2) sentence reinforcement exercises, and (3) interactive diagnostic testing, all with immediate feedback and explanations. The purpose of the study was to determine if the use of Web-based tutorials significantly improved student performance using pre- and post-test measurements. A quasi-experimental design was used to compare learning outcomes. The results indicate that the use of Web-based tutorials to review grammar and mechanics significantly impacted students' scores from pre-test to final post-test. ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]; Copyright of Interdisciplinary Journal of E-Learning & Learning Objects is the property of Informing Science and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)