Building on feedback from the Alpha testing, Beta testing of the new WIDS is in full swing. A dedicated group meets weekly to report results and view future testing assignments. These users recognize the need for a comprehensive solution to design, manage and disseminate curriculum across an organization and value the opportunity for input.
Kathy Kegan, of Dunwoody College of Technology (DCT), is among those testing the new WIDS. She favors the application because it allows for reliable program assessment, customizations for individual schools, and a dashboard to keep documents at the fingertips of faculty. “I like that it will be Web-based,” she adds. “It will make it more convenient for faculty to use.”
Marty Arend of DCT agrees. “Most people will be happy with the fact that they can access WIDS from anywhere through a Web browser, and that the application is easy to maneuver through.” He also maintains that the process of assigning roles within the curriculum is a bonus. “The roles should help guide people through the steps they need to take during the curriculum development process,” he says. “I appreciate the fact that WIDS is doing testing this way. It’s really nice having input into how this all works.”
“We like it,” adds Valerie Bielinski, of Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC). “Some of the functionalities are going to help foster consistency throughout the college, especially in what we learned today with the outcome assessment plan feature. The new WIDS is rather user friendly and the functionality has stayed fairly similar. The testing process is well-defined, well-scripted and we've found legitimate issues and opportunities for making WIDS even more effective.”
Beta testing began in early May, as users were walked through the process of placing a full program into the new Web-based WIDS application. Early on, they learned to assign roles, add institutional core abilities, program outcomes and external standards. In subsequent weeks, they worked to develop performance assessment tasks, link outcomes and create scoring guides, as well as develop a course outcome summary, learning plan and performance assessment task. During the first two weeks of June, the group tested the curriculum review and approval process, and more recently, developed course syllabi and a program outcome assessment plan.
“In all efforts, the testing group is working hard to master the new application and provide thoughtful and helpful feedback to make WIDS even better,” said WIDS Director Judy Neill. “We are so grateful for their hard work and input. Beta testing continues as we anticipate the unveiling of the new Web-based WIDS in coming months.”