Resource 7 (Evaluation)

• This resource is a modified version of information provided in wikipedia to suit mobile phones or PDA's.
• This is good alternative for students requiring the mobility of a specific learning resource.
• Features:
  "Long pages are divided into smaller chunks to fit into the small displays of mobile phones".
  "Images are scaled down to the resolution of the mobile device".
  "Own fast search engine, independent from Wikipedia servers
  Supports WML and modern XHTML Mobile formats, with an auto detection of the best format for each device".
  "Several languages - more will follow if requested. See Languages".
  "Delivery of recent versions of articles".
  "A local article database provides full service and high speed, even if the Wikipedia servers don't respond or aren't fast enough".
  "Users can configure the size of images and other options like the size of the start page".(Wapedia, n.d.)
• Students must always question the validity of information in wikis but the information on the lighting topics are well written, seem accurate and the links work well further information as required.
• By the nature of a wiki, there is opportunity for students to engage in providing or adding to information already present. Hosie & Schibeci (2005, p. 884) stated that "real education requires interaction, the interaction that is essential to high-quality teaching and learning".
  
• The information covers a very wide range of topics and could be used as a resource for units AURE218708A - Cary out repairs to single electrical circuits, AURE219331A - Install, test and repair low voltage wiring/lighting systems, AURE219531A - Install ancillary electrical components - AURE 318866A - Repair electrical systems.
• The information is provided in written text and photos.
• The original source could also be used by students in conjunction with this or as an alternative.

Evaluation

1* (poor), 5***** (Excellent)

1. Engagement of the resource. ***
   
2. Usability of the resource. **
   
3. Depth/appropriateness of the resource. ****
   
4. Currency of the resource. **
   
5. Consistency with current teaching models/practices. **

Total: 13/25

References

Features (n.d.) Retrieved September 1, 2008, from http://wapedia.mobi/en/Wapedia:Wapedia.

Hosie, P., & Schibeci, R. (2005). Checklist and context-bound evaluations of online learning in higher education. British Journal of Educational Technology, 36(5), 881 - 895.