Facilitating Enhanced Self, Peer and Instructor-Centered Performance Assessment with VoiceThread
Abstract: This study investigates the use of VoiceThread, a Web 2.0 application, for self, peer and instructor-centered performance assessment. The tool, which allows individuals to create, share and comment on multimedia slideshows containing any combination of images, videos and documents, was utilized in a beginning musical conducting lesson in a blended learning environment. The lesson was conducted with 10 participants as part of a doctoral course on technology and cognition. Learner perceived affordances and constraints of this tool for assessment were recorded via an online questionnaire, and reflective blog posts and one on one interviews were utilized to provide greater insight into participant perceptions. Findings demonstrate a high level of usefulness, usability, motivation, interest, engagement, social presence and reflection produced. A disconnect is uncovered in examining the frequency of use and perceived usefulness of specific features of the application. This contradiction is discussed, and implications for future applications are presented.