MediaVision Courseware is an advanced research and learning outcomes project produced and supported by Instructional Technology and Academic Computing (ITAC) at Case Western Reserve University. Working with large, introductory and lecture-style undergraduate courses, MediaVision uses advanced multimedia learning tools to support learning success and enhance teaching. Elements of a typical MediaVision Courseware project includes searchable digital video recordings of lectures, review sessions, and homework assistance; MP3 audio recordings; and integrated on-line textbook and supplementary reading. Working with our faculty and faculty support team, the Mediavision Courseware production team creates an integrated learning environment on the Web. We begin with integrating traditional course management system tools with our commitment to learning outcomes and student success. We record lectures and review sessions. These materials are encoded for network distribution; classified, indexed and "published" to the web with the help of subject matter experts. Video content in the MediaVision Courseware vault are then nested inside the integrated learning environment online where they are accessed by students. Students can, for example, choose to replay an entire lecture or, more powerfully, view only the portions of the lecture they would like to see based on the results of a key word search. In our pilot productions MediaVision Courseware, linking video to text materials, review materials, reusable and retrievable examples of key concepts and terms, and online reference materials have helped student succeed in key undergraduate courses. Evaluations of both learning outcomes and student satisfaction have been consistently positive and deemed valuable by students and faculty alike.
Evaluating student performance is an important goal of this project, and the results have been impressive. When asked if the success of these multimedia materials will deter students from attending class in-person, Dr. Ocasio, MediaVision Courseware's first faculty sponsor, replied, "Its just another way to keep my door open to my students." Wendy Shapiro, Director of ITAC added, "Faculty on our campus are very excited about using these technologies to supplement their teaching. Rather than attempting to provide a "one-application-for-all" approach, we work with faculty on a case-by-case basis to adapt our technology to their areas of expertise and for their particular teaching needs." Shapiro and Mike Kubit, Manager of MediaVision, co-presented on MediaVision Courseware during the National Internet2 Day on March 18, 2004. Kubit added, "MediaVision Courseware illustrates how technology can not only improve the delivery of the course materials, it can improve the educational outcome as well."
To date, over a dozen courses have been produced utilizing MediaVision Courseware. Current collaborations are underway in the College of Arts and Sciences, Case School of Engineering, Weatherhead School of Management, and the College of Dental Medicine.
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