October 2006 Volume 9 Number 4

Figure 4: Example of Summary Image File
Figure 5: Example of Creating Audio Critique
The instructor reviews each student’s submission to generate a critique in the form of a 20- to 30-minute MP3
audio file (see Figure 5). This audio critique can be recorded while speech recognition software is running in the
background, such as Nuance’s Dragon Naturally Speaking. This provides a written text of the critique as an
alternative form of feedback or to accommodate diverse student learning styles. Not every slide receives
comments each week, as some comments are redundant or have little impact on the class as a whole. A student
may receive comments on his individual project one week and not the following week. All comments are in one
audio file. Students hear comments directed at both their project and those of their classmates. The audio file and
summary image file are then uploaded to the course website, where they are archived and accessible throughout
the remainder of the semester. This format maintains a permanent record of student work and participation.
Finally, the student reviews both files prior to the next weekly lecture. He is able to note his individual progress
in comparison to his peers, which can be used as a measure of progress toward course goals (James, 1996).
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