Abstract:

This article outlines the design of an open computer system which relies on distributed computing for the collection and storage of data from very large samples. The purpose of the system is to provide a base of reliable data for assessing the impact of technology on the delivery of educational materials. The system consists of four main components: (a) an open instrument (an instructor's form) which generates student forms, (b) an E-Mail filtering agent, (c) a client/server database, and (d) a Web interface. Data are input directly by end users or as a byproduct of end users' interaction with the system. The second and third components, taken together, constitute the data gathering section of the system. This data gathering agent relies upon several devices in order to guarantee data integrity and security: (a) an E-Mail receipt sent to the instructor, (b) an access code, (c) an expiration date, and (d) confirmation of information before submission.

Author: Maurizio Oliva