Here's what I got so far . . .

I'm not quite as far as I would like where the literature review is concerned but I think I'm getting there. I've pulled more than 30 articles so far. The method I use is to pull summary sentences of direct quotes that I find helpful in each article and then type them into a word document. After they are all in I sort the quotes based on the themes that I'm writing about. I combine ideas into coherent sentences and paragraphs, including direct quotes when I have found something spectacular. This process allows me to easily site more than one article while comparing and contrasting the different ideas that I have discovered. I'm about 10 articles into the process which I have in a different file for and then will combine it into the total progress.

I need to get more motivated on this literature review!!!

Pre-Thesis

If the link doesn't work copy and paste the following address:
http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AQNGGlujIM84ZDIyd2tkN18yZ3dodG12Y20&hl=en

Yet another change . . .

OK, so is it me or does it sometimes seem like it's 2 steps forward and 1 step back with this project. After the discussion last week I again have reconsidered how I will focus my project. I am now looking at an action research design on what it takes to create, grade and get feedback from a paper test versus an online test. In order to do this I am still going to use my 2 Algebra Concepts classes in order to see how each type of test works and to get feedback on student preference/opinions on the format. Essentially I will be creating a paper test and then moving into an online format, which will be graded immediately and give students immediate feedback. I have state testing for the next two weeks which should give me the perfect amount of time to complete the Literature review and develop the tests/quizzes that I will be using.

At least I feel like I might have a chance on the literature review. I have pulled over 20 articles related to online assessment but still need to figure out the other areas to address. I'm looking forward to listening to Dr. Newberry's podcast on the Literature Review to gain the insight I need to complete this portion of the project.

I am still working on my Pre-Thesis but it should be coming soon!
Thanks for following me!
Leah

I think I'm on the right track . . . I hope!

OK, so after considering what this quarter is going to look like both at work and home I think I may have figured out what I would like to do for my research. I would like to examine the use of online quizzes as opposed to paper tests. I am considering using my 2 Algebra Concepts courses to create a comparison study. The first assessment one class would take it using paper and the other would take it using the computer. On the second assessment the classes would switch roles. I would probably combine these experiences with a survey to acquire the student's opinions of taking online assessments. I'm still working out all the details and looking at the beginning to middle of May to actually have the assessments. Now all I have to do is the research! Literature Review here I come. If you're interested in my time line I'm going to try to create a link but I will also include the address so you can just copy and paste. I would love your input!

Thanks!
Leah

Time Line

If the link doesn't work for some reason try copying and pasting:

https://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AQNGGlujIM84ZDIyd2tkN18xczNtcHQ0ZjQ&hl=en

What did I get myself into?

The first thought that came to mind tonight during and shortly after class was, "what did I get myself into?" I'm hoping that over the next week I can get a plan into place and start to really work on this project. After discussing my project in class I think I'm leaning towards doing a pre-post test model coupled with traditional teaching methods. The tests will be online. I'm considering trying to work with my Algebra Concepts classes (I have 2 or those), where one class will take the test using traditional paper and pencil and the other class will take the test online. The goal this week is to get with my computer lab technician, look at the schedule over the next 6 weeks and figure out what is really feasible to get done.

At least I know what to start researching. I will be concentrating my literature review on the use of online assessments, especially in secondary arena. I hope that this will all come together one way or another.