If you can't beat 'em, join 'em: Applying Softchalk Principles to Canvas Quizzes

Submitted by Diane Stonebrink on
Duration
-
Abstract

When developing the online GER101 online piloted Fall 2015, I created modules in which students were presented with video, audio, & text content on a topic.  Various speaking & writing assignments were given, and then a Canvas Quiz was given to assess comprehension.  I soon noticed students were going straight to quizzes without accessing Canvas content pages first.  After unsuccessful exhortations to go through modules in order, I finally decided, "if you can't beat 'em, join 'em".  Previously, I had created Reusable Learning Objects using Softchalk software: a chunk of content is presented immediately followed by a few "comprehension checks" before the next chunk and more checks.  To emulate this model, I moved the videos & other instructional content directly into Canvas quizzes to enable students to read information, watch a video, and answer comprehension questions all in 1 place.  This ensured content wasn't skipped in a rush to do the quizzes.  When the course runs again in Fall 2016, I'll be able to compare quiz scores to see if the new format results in higher grades.

Division/Department
Completed Full Cycle
No
Course Number
GER101
Rating
Average: 5 (2 votes)

Comments

Olga Tsoudis Thu, 01/14/2016 - 10:56am

This is a great idea! I have also had challenges with the students reading the weekly objectives and outcomes as well as watching the weekly video. I look forward to your results. I am going to incorporate this into a course and see how it works. If I put in a quiz, I can also have a question on those specific items to assess it.

Heather Muns Mon, 02/01/2016 - 3:58pm

I really like this idea.  I didn't even know you could put all the videos and other info into the Canvas quizzes.  I find that students gloss through the material and then try to take the quiz and often times don't do well.  I look forward to your results.  

Peter Turner Fri, 02/05/2016 - 12:51pm

Diane, this is great! I also struggle with student follow-through in an online setting. I greatly look forward to your results, and will be eager to implement these strategies accordingly!