Online one-on-one video discussion as an alternative evaluation to in-person test in HyFlex course | Scholarship of Teaching and Learning | Seneca Polytechnic

This SoTL research project investigated an alternative evaluation method in PHY453, a HyFlex physics course, comparing traditional pen-and-paper tests with online one-on-one video discussions.

Sorina Zota, PhD, principal investigator and faculty in the School of Biology Studies and Applied Chemistry, and her team, assessed students' choices and concerns regarding in-class, online synchronous, and online asynchronous modalities of interaction with the course content, as well as their willingness to select the alternative evaluation method instead of in-class written tests.

Given that one-on-one online discussions are time-consuming and resource-intensive, involving careful planning and implementation, the project also estimated the time required to organize and complete them.

Project findings:

• Students' preferences for evaluation methods do not significantly correlate with their choice of participating in class or online.
• The most common factors influencing participation mode are work schedule and timetable, interaction with the professor and transportation convenience.
• The video discussion is perceived as more aligned with workplace practice, especially in terms of real-time communication and problem solving.
• Logistically, organizing and conducting eleven video discussions required twice more faculty time than invigilating a traditional 90-minutes test session and marking the same number of papers.

Limitations of the study include small sample size.

This project highlighted the value of student-centered assessment design in a HyFlex learning environment. Beyond the quantitative data, the qualitative feedback revealed how evaluation modality can impact student confidence and stress levels. 

Future research may explore the long-term impact of flexible course delivery and diverse evaluation methods on student performance and satisfaction. Additionally, investigating the effectiveness of different online interaction tools and platforms could provide valuable insights.