Using e-Learning Platforms for Mastery Learning in Developmental Mathematics Courses

Mathematics and Computer Education, Spring 2004 by Boggs, Stacey, Shore, Mark, Shore, JoAnna

The number of versions of tests generated by Random Blocks is large. For example, if the teacher wants to make a 30 question test, consisting of two questions from each of 15 objectives, and there are 50 question in each of the 15 question pools, then there would be (C^sub 50,2^)15 or 2.099�10^sup 46^ versions of the test. This does not include the additional feature of Blackboard of randomizing the arrangement of the questions chosen from the test pools.

The versatility of the Blackboard e-learning platform allows teachers to easily create multiple versions of tests. The option of using test bank cartridges and or Random Blocks to form test question pools effectively eliminates the first obstacle for successful Mastery Learning, that of creating multiple versions of tests.

2. Grading multiple versions of tests at a variety of stages

Grading multiple versions of tests at a variety of stages in the course is an intimidating task for most instructors. Blackboard makes this task manageable. The e-learning platform automatically grades any generated version of a test and the scores are automatically recorded in an electronic grade book. In addition, the students are given immediate feedback on all tests. After completing a test, students immediately know if they passed at the appropriate level to progress to the next material. Blackboard allows instructors to focus on their students' needs rather than on the paperwork required with traditional instruction.

The e-learning platform also has an option to allow students to view their response and the correct response to each question on the test which is a good way for them to learn from their mistakes. Thus, the test becomes a learning tool as well. A common concern is that students would give the correct test answers to another student. If the questions for the tests are randomly drawn from question pools for each objective, then the teacher can be confident, due to the large number of possible responses, that the student's test questions and answers are unique from other students.

In traditional classroom testing situations students have one try on each test. Since generally students do not take the time to learn the material they missed, the same mistakes often reoccur throughout the course. By incorporating Blackboard as a tool for Mastery Learning in developmental mathematics courses, students can see what problems they missed and then have the opportunity to demonstrate that they have mastered these topics on the next attempt.

3. Scheduling time for students taking multiple versions of tests

A drawback of teaching mathematics in a Mastery Learning format is scheduling testing times for students who are at different places in the syllabus during the course. The Blackboard e-learning platform offers a solution by testing via the Internet. If the course is taught in a computer lab, then students can take tests during class. If a computer lab is unavailable and the teacher does not allow students to take the tests without a test proctor, then the instructor may use Blackboard to password protect the test and give the password to a professional staff member of the college's testing center. The students would then need to go to the college's testing center to take all tests. A professional staff member of the testing center would check the student's identification to confirm his username and enter the password for the student to take the test. The advantage of this option is that class time is spent on instruction rather than on testing.