Feedback from the students on using a CMS and Web 2.0

These were the comments that were given by the class during the feedback session:

Positive aspects about doing all of the work on the computer, using a variety of programs and the CMS.

• I felt more proactive in getting my work done.
• Can type faster than can write.
• Everything was in one place, which was easier. More organised.
• No excuses for loosing things.
• Not as repetitive in terms of drafts: easier to edit.
• Programs like Toondoo were enjoyable, it was not just writing.
• Writing is antiquated: this is more economical - saves paper, can understand students' work (especially those who have bad hand writing)
• Google docs: gives you no excuse for leaving the work elsewhere.
• Everyone will need to learn to use a computer because they are becoming a regular part of our lives anyway.
• One student uses Studywiz (CMS) a lot, but thinks that a lot of teachers are not able to use it. If everyone was using it, it would be a lot easier for everyone because there would be more of a routine. Info can be accessed at home.
• Studywiz was relatively easy to use.

Negative

• Annoying, when the program didn’t work*, then work was lost. (*slow/overloaded Internet)
• Too many temptations: games, videos, etc.
• Harder for students who don’t like/understand computers (there was one!)
• Some students don’t like doing homework in front of a screen.
• Slow Internet usage was really annoying in iLab and H1.

The majority of students would prefer to do assignments on the computer again next time.

My conclusions:
The students see the benefits of using the computers. There is a great deal of room for variety and for opportunities to differentiate tasks.

A few drawbacks though from the teacher's perspective:

• students should still be consulting books for information - the Internet is not always the most suitable/reliable source. The students will need training to keep a balance.
  
• it definitely requires a great deal more energy from the teacher: not only are you trying to keep the class focused on the task, but you also have to deal with any issues re use of the computer/programs that arise. The students are generally very needy in this area. In addition, those who are easily off task (every class has a few) need to be carefully monitored otherwise they could easily spend most of the lesson entertaining themselves 'elsewhere'.
• The CMS needs to be working as a matter of routine (the more teachers and students using it the better). Some of the students still have a bit of difficulty navigating in it.
• There seem to be a whole range of excuses as to why work could not be submitted.
  

Some good points from the teacher's perspective:

• Behaviour management for those few who have a habit of acting out was not so much of a problem. The students were mostly on task.
• Those who need a bit of stretching have the opportunity to do so.