An Interactive Decision Support Application for Learning Assessment in a Class Setting

This paper presents a functional learning assessment application that meets the needs of both the instructor and students in a class setting. For the instructor, the focus of this interactive application is on the management of class learning assessment. This interactive spreadsheet application is independent of the grading scale for course items and is based on course item weights and weighted score percentages. A demonstration of a grade performance analysis for a database management system course reflects class achievement of instructional goals under equitable learning achievement option plans. For self-regulated student learners who seek to improve their class performance, this application facilitates making adjustments in learning strategies. This application bridges the concept of a self-regulated learner with learning outcomes through its tracking, what-if, and goal-seeking capabilities. The goal-seeking feature in this application allows students to determine the required minimum grade required for a specific course item to maintain or improve their current grade standing in class. A survey of students using this application revealed the perceived usefulness of this application in the areas of decision support and increased understanding of the learning criteria used by the instructor to assess class performance.