Perhaps it would be best to share this information on-line, as I believe
many of us may be interested. Our college is looking at NovaNet and Plato
right now. Both programs would be for self-paced instruction in the
learning center on our campus. Do any of you have information that you
would like to share about either of these programs?
Thank you,
Deb Mills
Director of Developmental Studies
Western Wyoming Community College
Rock Springs, WY 82935
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-----Original Message-----
From: Heather Newburg [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Tuesday, October 17, 2000 2:50 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Software for self-paced, computer-based learning lab
Greetings LRNASSTers!
A question for those of you who have self-paced, individualized,
skills-development computer labs at your institutions as an option for
developmental education courses....
Our institution in investigating the possibility of creating a computer lab
for students who need preparatory coursework or "refreshers" in
developmental reading, English, or math. Currently, we offer developmental
education courses that do not earn credit toward graduation. Some students
who are "borderline" resent having to sit through a 3-credit course in
English, or cruise through the 1-credit math modules for "no credit." We
have heard of institutions that offer options to students testing into
developmental courses: the students can 1) take a course (and pay tuition)
or 2) use the self-paced (computer-based) learning lab to develop the
necessary skills needed for freshmen-level courses.
For those of you who have these types of labs, what software packages do you
use and why? Do you find that the students can actually sit down at the
computer and learn the material without an instructor? I am familiar with
PLATO and have contacted McGraw-Hill about their software, but I'm
interested in learning about other packages that have been "tried and true"
in the area of higher ed developmental ed...
Please reply off-line to Heather (Newburg) Ferguson at [log in to unmask]
Thanks-
Heather (Newburg) Ferguson
NCLCA Membership Secretary
Learning Center Director/
Coordinator of University Studies
Lake Superior State University
Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
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