Initial thoughts after evaluation

Findings from the Expert Review of the Sample Learning Unit
I think that the Expert Review was the most valuable feedback that I received. The experts (7) sampled the learning module and then completed an evaluation on Blackboard. They had a 15 minute break while I reviewed the results and then as a group we had further discussions to clarify and expand the ideas.

One aspect that was highlighted was that many people don't read instructions on the internet, or skim there way through. A couple of people rushed through the module and didn't even notice some of my activities, eg video demo! So instructions need to be kept to a minimum, and those instructions should be VERY obvious, brief and simple.

Another topic that was well discussed was the use of audio in the learning module. I thought I had prepared for this by adding text captions, but apparently if the computer doesn't have sound, then the video demo doesn't open at all. Although all MIT staff do have sounds on their computers, some may be accessing the learning model from home. Not sure if this issue is just an MIT issue, or maybe related to the software that they are using (they used Camtasia, I am using Captivate at present) Will have to check this out further.

I am quite keen to use audio in my learning module, as research shows that this does add to the learning experience, and caters for different learning styles. Also, 83% of those surveyed on my staff questionnaire preferred audio visual demonstrations. One option suggested was to create one video demo with sound and one without, then staff could select the appropriate medium. If any of you had any experience with this, would appreciate any feedback.

See results of the Expert Review of the Sample Learning Unit on http://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=r19WdTxDb12ig_9iM7S931A

Another question that I brought to this focus group was "What method should be used to find out the training needs of the staff?

I currently use a hard copy of a Training Needs Analysis to recommend training for new staff during their induction training. Training Needs Analysis is only carried out on existing staff if requested by staff member or manager.

After much discussion it was agreed that an Online Training Needs Analysis would fit the bill. Could easily be created in Wimba Create and possibly placed in Intranet site, alongside Health & Safety online quizz (for new staff).

For staff booking on computer courses, a short pretest could be emailed to them when they register, to check that they are at the right level for this course, or to recommend another course - this could easily be done in Wimba Create.

Could also put TNA on Blackboard (staff could self-enrol).


MIT Staff Questionnaire
This questionnaire was completed by 18 staff consisting of FreeB Community Facilitators and Call Centre staff. There were no surprises here, the results were what I expected. The questionnaire was done in SurveyMonkey and I was really impressed with how easy it was to use and download results.

I used a 5 scale Likert questionnaire. On one question "I would need training in the use of an LMS (Blackboard) 10 out of 18 responded "Neutral" - not very helpful, left me wondering. On reflection I would choose a 4 level scale in future.

The preference was for self paced learning 61%, followed by blended delivery 56%. This was to be expected with the group of staff that I chose - they are from offsite locations or in roles where they not easily attend face to face training.

The resources that these staff thought would be most useful to their learning were audio visual demo's, and interactive exercises.

Results of survey taken by 18 MIT staff, consisting of FreeB Community Facilitators and Call Centre staff can be viewed on http://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=rar-Fhxk14bjim7ebihrEAg.


MIT-wide survey
As part of a wider survey, 35 selected MIT staff (managers or their representatives across all departments)were asked if they had any interest in online software learning for themselves or their staff. 26 said "yes", 1 said "no", and 4 said "maybe/unsure"

Presentation of Data
I am thinking of presenting the data in graph format because I think that this visual is more effective than reading figures. They would be a combination of either bar charts or pie charts depending on the data.

All for now,

Michelle