Subject: Re: [IFETS-DISCUSS] IFETS-DISCUSSION Digest - 5 Jun 2003 to 6 Jun 2003 (#2003-38)
From: Petersen, Naomi Jeffery (njp@IUSB.EDU)
Date: Fri 06 Jun 2003 - 12:45:46 MEST
Date: Fri, 6 Jun 2003 22:45:46 +1200 From: "Petersen, Naomi Jeffery" <njp@IUSB.EDU> Subject: Re: [IFETS-DISCUSS] IFETS-DISCUSSION Digest - 5 Jun 2003 to 6 Jun 2003 (#2003-38)
Regarding Michael's mention of
"a) On-line activity of all kinds should be rewarded (I typically use just 5% of
the total mark).
b) The reward for activity is out of all proportion with the
level of activity."
No problem with online participation, and the need to acknowledge it, but I would
not regard it as meriting a 'reward'. This may have to do with one's view of
assessments and what grades are for, but also what the function of personal
interaction is regarding the goals of the course. Ultimately this is governed by
learning theory. Using grades as a reward assumes a behaviorist learning theory
that is known to be counterproductive: the more extrinsic motivation is used, the
less intrinsic motivation occurs.
The online discussion should certainly be monitored for participation, for this
is a critical component of the students' learning experience and an opportunity
to contribute to the learning environment. The first point is a matter of
sociopsychological constructivist learning theory; the second is a matter of civility.
I feel strongly that passivity not only should not be rewarded in class as well
as online, but it should not be tolerated. We have enough slugs absorbing the
entertainment value of television without perpetuating the same consumer orientation
toward classes. We must define all activity within a course in terms of the goals
of that course, and whether it is for developing or demonstrating those goals.
Thus, all participation in written communication, face-to-face interaction, and
their hybrid, online discussion, is merely an opportunity to demonstrate whatever
the goals of the course are as defined by the syllabus. The concrete task is itself
not assessable except by the criteria of the course goals.
Naomi Jeffery Petersen, Ed.D.
Indiana University South Bend
NJP@IUSB.edu
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