Multimedia and assessment techniques in an operations research course

Abstract

This paper discusses the implementation of multimedia, and its effect on the learning process, in an Operations Research course. WebCT, a World Wide Web course tool, was used for the course web site. Web technology was applied extensively in the form of video lectures (that were streaming), course web pages, discussion board, email, and Internet search. Students were required to prepare an extensive portfolio that contained their comments about the pedagogy tools used in the course. The portfolio, along with other tools, was used to assess the effects of this new teaching and learning environment. The design of multimedia tools in this course was based on the objectives of the department, the requirements by employers, and the new criteria set up by the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET 2000). The instructor's perception is that the video lectures enriched the learning process and enhanced efficiency of the class sessions, though they cannot completely replace every class sessions. The course web site is an excellent archive for course material and a tool for constant interaction with students. The portfolio improved some of the required skills (writing and critical thinking) and provided feedback for future improvements of the course. Feedback from students was generally positive and indicated considerable achievement of the objectives for this course.