Computer based learning and teaching/testing

Abstract

The Ministry of Education has been propagating the wide use of Information Technology (IT) and computers in the classroom. This includes the use of computers as teaching tools for teachers. There are many tools that are available for teachers. Some teachers may use the Internet by posting their notes on Web Pages using Hypertext Marked-up Language (HTML) for easy access by their students. Posting Web Pages is easy but this is limited to purposes of lecturing only. There comes a time when teachers would like to give exercises or tests using the computer apart from just lecturing on Web Pages. Web Pages can do these but require some further information like the knowledge of Java programming or Active Server Pages (ASP). This requirement may hinder their needs to use the computer for such purposes as not all of them have a deep knowledge of these.<br><br>As such it is only appropriate to create a program that is simple to use. This program can provide a direct way for teachers to create simple lectures. On top of this, the program also allows the students to read the lectures and feedback to teachers via exercises and tests. In this way, teachers and students can both actively provide for each other's needs. For the teacher, he or she will be able to monitor the students' understanding of latest topics being taught. On the other hand, students can monitor their own learning pace and understanding.<br><br>The computer-based program allows teachers to upload their material in the comfort of their own homes or from schools. Students on the other hand can access these materials via their own computers at home through a modem connection or in schools. This allows both parties to actively do their jobs in their own time with no constraints. This prevents the need to frequently held tests in classes that can be time-consuming. This is especially advantageous when a teacher just need to monitor students' understanding on certain concepts just learnt.<br><br>With the above-mentioned needs, the program called Computer Based Learning and Teaching\Testing or CBLT is born in the hope of satisfying the needs of both teachers and students in monitoring their work or performances.<br><br>The program is in a graphical interface that is familiar to Windows 95 users. Much of the program makes use of Microsoft Powerpoint program by using OLE technology. As such, the program is extremely familiar to that of what teachers normally use.