Postcourse Evaluations of WebCT (Web Course Tools) Classes by Social Work Students

Abstract

Objective Technology-enhanced education is becoming an increasingly important part of higher and professional education. Web-based course management tools such as WebCT (Web Course Tools) are the latest wave of technology-based pedagogical tools. The question is whether certain groups of students, in particular, nontraditional students, are disadvantaged when these tools are used for teaching and learning. Method This study reports on a survey of39 social work students’ satisfaction with and perception of impact of WebCT in social work education. Results All students found course materials on the course Web site helpful. Graduate and nontraditional students reported greater utility of the course management tools. Nontraditional students were not disadvantaged by, and preferred access to, Web-based courses. Conclusions Web-based and Web-enhanced courses hold promise for accommodating the needs of nontraditional students in social work education.