Teachers’ Perceptions about Usability Of a Case Library
David H. Jonassen, Sanda Erdelez · Journal of Computing in Teacher Education · 2006
AbstractRather than learning and then applying theory to the solution of problems, learners can be provided with stories about others’ experiences while designing classroom instruction. However, the usability of case-libraries has not been documented with teachers. In this study, students accessed a case-library of technology integration stories (kite.missouri.edu) while developing a technology integration plan. We compared student use and perceptions with their use of the ERIC clearinghouse, with which they were all familiar. Naturally, teachers varied in their perceptions and uses of the case library. Teachers most liked the authentic nature of the stories as information sources. The most consistent problem was the novelty of the environment. Some teachers also wanted to access the materials described in the stories. Successful integration of case libraries into learning activities will require an orientation to the effective use of cases and the environment itself.