Mid-way survey and student work...

The students took a survey yesterday about their perspective regarding the research work they are doing now that the Chrome Books are here.  All but one took the survey (she'll take it upon return to school tomorrow morning). The results seem to indicate, generally, that they think they are getting more done in a shorter period of time.

With a more detailed review of the answers, it appears the students who didn't perceive much difference in the amount and quality of research work before and after are the students who haven't done much all along. It was the students who were trying to access databases, take notes and complete daily target dates that have noticed the biggest differences in work efficiency. The students who have never taken this course before, and who have never had to produce a handwritten journal and note cards, are the ones who do not notice much difference in quality or quantity of work output.

So, my preliminary opinion so far? Two observations: 1) You can lead a student to research, but if the curiosity and persistence to dig deep for information is not present, no amount of new technology will make those traits appear. 2) Without knowledge of how tedious research CAN be, and HAS been as recently as last semester, the new technology is the norm and therefore not better or worse. In those students, the only difference has been the time it takes to log in.

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