Description of Assessment Component
The assessment component of Common Knowledge: Pittsburgh is designed
to illuminate the educational and social consequences of wide-area
computer networking in the public schools. The research is
conceptualized as a series of interconnected case studies designed to
identify the factors which shape both how networking technology is
used and how its use influences teachers and students. Data-gathering
techniques will be both quantitative and qualitative. For example,
quantitative information concerning time trends in student and teacher
use of wide-area networking will be gathered and analyzed. The results
are presented in the
Usage and Participation Reports
which are updated monthly by CK:P
Evaluation Staff.
Surveys focussing on the reactions of teachers and students to their
networking experiences will also be conducted. Qualitative data-
gathering activities, such as non-participant observation and open-
ended interviews with teachers and students, will also be utilized to
provide an account of the context in which the networking activities
occur. In addition to these case studies, some formative evaluation
activities will also be conducted to assist project staff in
developing training materials and procedures, and in adjusting such
activities to fit changing circumstances.
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