Abstract:

The assessment of laboratory practical work is characterised by inherent challenges associated with the quality of the experimental reports produced. The complexity of the laboratory environment can be daunting for students resulting in the erosion of confidence in terms of the execution and presentation of scientifically acceptable experimental reports. In response to this key imperative, a computer-based technology system has been adopted for assessment of physics practical work at a South African university over the years. The computer-based technology system is essentially a platform consisting of a meticulously developed database encapsulating various experiments. The database provides unique characteristic features for each individual experiment and facilitates objective assessment of practical work per work station. In addition, the computer-based technology system makes provision for a considerable number of experiments to be assessed efficiently within a short duration. The assessment of practical work using the computer-based technology system described in this regard proved to be an efficacious and innovative approach in terms of the verification of basic scientific laws underpinning various experiments as well as the provision of prompt feedback for the benefit of students.

Keywords:

Practical work, computer-based technology system, assessment, laboratory environment.