WebTeach Project: Enhancing Distance Learning with a Multiple-Choice Mathematical Quiz System

Title: WebTeach Project: Enhancing Distance Learning with a Multiple-Choice Mathematical Quiz System

Research Question: Can a multiple-choice mathematical quiz system improve the assessment of student knowledge in distance learning environments?

Methodology: The WebTeach project developed a system consisting of WebCheck, WebWrite, and WebTest modules. WebCheck was a database interface for scheduling students for exams. WebWrite was a powerful wiki-like platform for creating and editing teaching materials. WebTest was a suite of tools for creating and automatically evaluating multiple-choice mathematical quizzes.

Results: The system was tested extensively for the entrance exam to the Engineering Faculty of the University of Florence. It was used for test management, immediate self-evaluation of answers, optical mark recognition for automatic scoring, and a discussion forum for students. The test covered mathematical topics and was designed to be fair for students from various high schools.

Implications: The WebTeach Project demonstrated that a multiple-choice mathematical quiz system can be an effective tool for assessing student knowledge in distance learning environments. It also showed that such a system can be developed and maintained by a group of volunteers, with the help of open-source software and a collaborative approach. The project's success suggests that similar systems could be implemented in other educational settings to improve assessment and learning outcomes.

Link to Article: https://arxiv.org/abs/0310013v1 Authors: arXiv ID: 0310013v1