Student reflection using a Web-based Quiz

The contents of a Web-based Quiz of terms used in Information Technology and Electronic Engineering courses have been generated by students themselves. Questions received from the students were based on lecture notes that they had received. Students were requested to reflect on the concepts that were introduced in the course. Groups of students were given coursework: "Generate multiple-choice questions for your fellow students to answer". Each group was required to supply the correct answers with illustrations/diagrams, together with plausible but wrong alternative solutions. Grades were given on the basis of self-analysis of conceptual ambiguity, correct solution and thorough explanation. The student-supplied questions were edited and a Quiz (written in cgi-script) was assembled. A Glossary and Dictionary of terms used in lectures has been under continuing student development over the time of its existence: critical assessment, integration, editing and testing has been done over the years. Students were asked as individuals to answer randomly selected questions from the Quiz. The grade score was automatically available at the close of the session and incorrect answers were referred to the correct Dictionary entries. The quiz-scoring results are for personal feedback rather than being used for overall assessment. The Quiz was a powerful aid to revision since it was available for self-testing purposes. This student-centred responsibility for learning-by-teaching successors motivates students. Lecturers appreciate a cost-effective method of imbuing concepts and information. A summary of student responses to a questionnaire is presented.