The technological tool that I explored and examined for this module is EdApp. It is a learning management software that can be used for free on any device via its website or downloadable application. It offers a wide range of features such as editable course templates, learning analytics, gamification tools, tech support, and so much more. IMG Essentially, it is an awesome technological tool for course and program management and evaluation. It can be used by anyone, and courses or programs can be managed by anyone.
Regarding course/program evaluation, EdApp offers an analytic suite that gives users the opportunity to review, collect, pool, and analyze data pertaining to learners’ performance, completion rates, learner engagement, and other useful statistics. Interestingly, this analytics hub produces data in several visual formats like tables, graphs, and charts. These visual representations illustrate both individual and group data and the reports can be customized. Generally, the insights and in-depth results produced in EdApp’s analytical suite serve as great indicators for a course or program’s effectiveness, impact, and relevance. In fact, according to Salih and Kocman (2016), this kind of evaluation “determines whether or not the outcomes or results predicted by the program occurred and if their occurrence was due to the project” (p. 34). Keegan (1996) shared similar sentiments noting that the focus of such evaluations should be on the effectiveness of the courses or program (as cited in Salih & Kocman, 2016). The analytics in EdApp is in accordance with these findings as it allows users to analyze course efficiency and effectiveness among other things.
Overall, I must admit that this tool was an excellent application and illustration of course/program management and evaluation. This technological tool coupled with the use of surveys or questionnaires produced from external sources like SurveyMonkey or Qualtrics will be the icing on the cake where course or program evaluations are concerned. Simply put, these additional tools will help the instructor or institution to acquire feedback from learners. Since they are the ones taking the courses and being impacted by courses, it is imperative to gain useful insights from this source. As such, the data obtained directly from learners will help the relevant personnel to make course improvements where necessary. Essentially, the data garnered from all of these various sources will help enhance the learning experiences of students undertaking courses in EdApp.
Krista
MDE student
University of Maryland Global Campus
University of Maryland Global Campus | UMGC
References
Salih, & Kocman, M.S. (2016). A Review on the Program Evaluation Strategies in Distance Education. International Journal on New Trends in Education and Their Implications 7(3). http://www.ijonte.org/FileUpload/ks63207/File/04.salih_usun_.pdf