An evaluation of innovative and e-volving approaches to student learning outcomes

About this initiative

The project was undertaken to evaluate students’ and teaching practitioners’ experience and reflections on the use of digital tools within teaching and learning environments. The background to the project / evaluation stems from recent updates to the assessment of a social research methods module in which students were asked to submit an online presentation (in advance of a written proposal). The project, therefore, sought to evaluate this experience, as well as gain further reflections from students and practitioners regarding the role of digital tools / technology, and barriers and challenges offered by such tools. This project offered a valuable opportunity to take stock of the role and impact of digital tools and technology against the backdrop of an increased use of hybrid and online teaching methods, as well as the specific changes made to the aforementioned social research methods module. The project was further contextualised by reflection on teaching and learning literature and recent research as to the perceived value and challenges posed by technology within third level (e.g. the use of Artificial Intelligence, the move to online during the Covid-19 pandemic, the ongoing trend towards embedding of online platforms such as ‘Canvas’ within third level programmes).