Title: Improving student performance in high cognitive level courses by using formative e-assessment

Authors: Enosha Hettiarachchi; M. Antonia Huertas; Enric Mor; Ana-Elena Guerrero-Roldán

Addresses: Internet Interdisciplinary Institute (IN3), Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), Carrer Roc Boronat, 117, 7th floor, 08018, Barcelona, Spain ' Department of Computer Science, Multimedia and Telecommunication, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), Rambla Del Poblenou, 156, 08018, Barcelona, Spain ' Department of Computer Science, Multimedia and Telecommunication, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), Rambla Del Poblenou, 156, 08018, Barcelona, Spain ' Department of Computer Science, Multimedia and Telecommunication, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), Rambla Del Poblenou, 156, 08018, Barcelona, Spain

Abstract: A student's performance in high cognitive level courses, like the case of the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects, is directly related with engagement and motivation. Practice and formative assessment are key elements to engage learners in this kind of courses. However, it is still an open issue, especially in distance education. This paper presents an approach to introduce formative e-assessment for skill and knowledge competence acquisition in an online distance learning environment. To do that, a technology-enhanced assessment system was designed and developed. The system implements formative e-assessment through intelligent type of questions and personalised feedback. For the evaluation, a pilot study was carried-out in a logic course requiring a high cognitive level of skill and knowledge at a fully online university. The results, based on quantitative and qualitative analysis, show a positive effect on the students' performance and learning experience as they are continuously engaged.

Keywords: e-assessment; higher-order cognitive skills; skills acquisition; interactivity; online learning; e-learning; electronic learning; higher education; technology-enhanced assessment; electronic assessment; online assessment; student performance; engagement; motivation; knowledge competence; distance learning; learning experience.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTEL.2015.072027

International Journal of Technology Enhanced Learning, 2015 Vol.7 No.2, pp.116 - 133

Received: 11 Jun 2015
Accepted: 11 Jun 2015
Published online: 29 Sep 2015 *

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