Using Digital Tools and Strategic Assignments: A Collaborative Approach to Enhance Learning

Abstract

Innovative digital tools are transformative in class environments. Today, the availability of digital resources allows students to strengthen skills that will be beneficial for their career advancement. The goal of this study was to assess the student’s learning through creativity using digital tools and strategic assignments. After COVID-19 an undergraduate-level course was offered partnering with the library on digital literacy for two consecutive years, the first year in a face-to-face modality and the second year in an online asynchronous course. Data collection occurred during the fall semester of 2021 for the face-to-face course and during the fall semester of 2022 for the online course. The advance and progression of nearly 30 students per semester in each group were followed. Individual and group assignments were planned along with lectures and activities. We used short quizzes in both courses, and we selected assignments to assess the understanding of basic concepts. A semester project was designed as a final activity using innovative digital tools to enhance creativity through a literacy digital journal and a digital wall design, to be graded individually and in groups. Face-to-face and online courses have defined dates for the proposed activities. In general, several activities were programmed for both courses with a follow-up throughout the semester and a final project presentation. Both courses presented challenges and opportunities for the students when activities were evaluated. New course developers can benefit from this case study as an example of creating online courses using digital tools to enhance student success.