Promoción del uso del web docente en la Universidad de Navarra: estrategia seguida y evaluación

Abstract

This paper presents the strategy adopted by the University of Navarre in school year 2001-2002 and 2002-2003 to promote the use of websites for academic purposes. Data on the outcome of the project implementation are also provided.

The project implementation had several components. First, we developed an e-content creation tool called Anai that is user-friendly. This allows people with very few computer skills to develop high-quality websites that have versatile features like weblogs, assessment systems, discussion tools, etc. Second, we organized several training sessions on the use of these tools.

Today, the number of professors using websites for academic purposes has increased significantly. At least 60% of the courses offered in the University of Navarre have a website. Nevertheless, among the professors, the level and extent of the use of the web vary considerably. 1) The content of most websites is limited to providing basic information about a course, such as course description, objectives, syllabus, criteria of evaluation, etc. 2) Some websites contain teaching notes, handouts and ideas to support students. The content is presented using a variety of formats such as Microsoft Word, Adobe PDF and Microsoft PowerPoint. 3) Very few courses use tools like forums, weblogs, assessment systems or digital video.

The key elements to ensure the effective implementation of the project include the following: user-friendly tools, institutional support and sustained efforts to train the users.