Weekly+Summaries

This week, we were prompted to complete a Quai assessment based on the assigned reading. This Quia was focused on different types of assessment strategies that are used and gave scenarios that were challenging to figure out. We also were assigned to develop a layout for a class that we would like to teach online. I chose a Marketing class geared towards the Sports & Entertainment Industry. The fist step in this process was to list observable & assessable goals for this class. These goals are posted in our Wikis & in the Blackboard site. Developing this Wiki was also an assignment for our first week.
 * Week 1 Summary**

I used Zoomerang as the survey tool to complete my assignment. I thought that this tool was very user friendly and easy to navigate. I also found it easy to edit and change the view when necessary. There are also several types of question formats to choose from. The only downside to Zoomerang is that you have to subscribe to get all of the benefits that they offer. The free version is fairly comprehensive.
 * Week 2 Summary**

I see the surveys being an integral part of online classes for me. I would feel much better knowing where the students stand prior to the class. I also believe that it is important to hear what they think of the course as they are part of the way through and at the end of the course. I believe that the information received will be helpful to shape the course for future students.

Ideally, I would like to do three surveys for a class: Preliminary survey, Midway survey and an Evaluation survey. The sentinel surveys that I would like to use for my class would include multiple choice, rate (1-4) and yes/no responses. In most cases these surveys are only a few questions. Choosing a few questions will increase the chances of participation over a long survey.

Sentinel surveys play an important role in the instructor's ability to adapt, even if it is throughout the middle of a course. I believe this is extremely important when conducting a class for the first time. This way, the knowledge gained can be used and changes (if necessary) can be implemented quickly.