Image adopted from: http://www.mnispi.org/cartoon/2003/source/Paperless_Training.gifThe invention of paper have changed the way humans communicate with each other. We are able to communicate more effectively by exchanging ideas and opinions through writing. In addition, different languages can be taught more efficiently with the combination of verbal and written materials.
In recent decades, efforts in creating an environmental-friendly and 'greener' world have been emphasised. Such efforts include recycling waste products, reducing carbon emission, improving energy efficiency and reducing paper usage.
The effort of reducing paper usage has intensified in recent years. For example, most academic and non-academic journals can be found online in soft copy instead of the usual printed copy that we can find in the library. Books, magazines and newspapers are other examples of items that can be found online although to a lesser extend compared to the former. Some universities in the world even took the initiative to permit their students to submit assignments and projects in soft copy via online submission website such as Turnitin.
Research Question
What will the reaction of NUS students be on the feasibility to make tests, quizzes and examinations in NUS, paperless?
Hypothesis
NUS students are supportive of the movement to make tests, quizzes and examinations paperless in the near future.
Problem Statement
The objective of this study is to determine the level of acceptance of NUS students on the issue of making tests, quizzes and examinations paperless.
Purpose Statement
The objective of the survey report is to highlight the possibility of implementing a paperless system to conduct future tests, quizzes and examinations in NUS to the NUS administration especially the examination committee.
Reasons for Attidunal Survey
An attidunal survey is required to gather and collate the views of NUS students regarding the implementation of the "paperless" system for future tests, quizzes and examinations in NUS. This survey can also highlight the worries faced by the students if this "paperless" system is implemented.
8 comments:
A possible point of contention is: reduce paper vs increase energy consumption (due to use of technology). How to balance the two optimally? How much "paperless assessment" is optimal and practical?
Yes Sharon's point is very true. In my opinion, I feel that turning to technology might save more resources and energy. However, think its good to churn out some data to support if your idea is feasible.
Another point, "Some universities in the world even took the initiative to permit their students to submit assignments and projects in soft copy via online submission website such as Turnitin." I suppose the main motive of asking students to submit to Turnitin is more of a convenience. Also the program can only check your work through the soft copy. But I do get the message you are trying to convey.
I think this topic of yours is very good. Its a topic that can really be implemented quite easily and effectively. During exams and quiz, NUS or rather alot of universities are wasting paper by giving students a 20 page booklet for a single page answer!
Hey Danny, like what Tom mentioned, I think the main reason why there's a shift from submitting assignments in hard copy to soft copy is due to convenience. But what about those people who can't afford laptops/computers? So probably in your survey questionaiire, you would want to categorise people who have access to comps, and those who don't. If you read section 2.3.5.3 of the textbook you will get what I mean. =)Actually in science cblc, they have already implemented the "default double-sided printing" . So I guess that will be one of the moves in supporting your campaign of "Less Paper"!
Hi Danny
With the technogly we have today, I believe it is possible for tests and exams to be conducted in a paperless way. Indeed, this will save a significant amount of paper and time.
I guess that there must have already been much debate on the feasibility of this notion. The pros and cons, e.g. less effective study/revision, possible abusers of such systems to alter grades to their advantage etc.
Having said that, it is still interesting to see how you debate the notion or if better, come up with a conclusive solution as to how such a transition can be brought about without any cons!
Best
Yilin
Hello Danny, I agree with thomas's point that it would be great to research on more evidence to support the idea of using technological convenience to save paper and resources. You can try to address the immediate concerns of the impact on the students and possible abuse of the system if not monitored closely. However, I feel that you have brought out an interesting topic for discussion and study purposes.
Danny you raised an interesting and relevant topic! This is some change that is do-able, even if now no one has mentioned it before.
This is also one of the good subjects that you can survey our own students. It is them who are taking the exams and if this is not the way for them, probably they can score better by typing?
This is an excellent description of your proposed topic, with your rationale, research question and problem statement very clear and concise.
Thanks, Danny!
To Sharon,
I understand your point on reducing paper vs. increase in energy consumption. I will look into more details on balancing both optimally.
To Tom,
I believe submitting assignments to Turnitin enables the lecturers to check the works of their students for plagiarism. But, submitting documents into the workbin in IVLE rather than hardcopy will certainly save a lot of papers in the long run.
To Huiling,
I believe students can always come to the university and submit their assignments using the computers available in CBLC.
To Yilin,
I believe this system can be implemented without much trouble. However, the disadvantages will have to be solved.
To Jiahao,
I will do more research on it. There is certainly ways to tackle the disadvantages.
Cheers,
Danny.
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