Customization Of Instant Feedback For Integrated Assignments: A Case Study

Abstract

This paper describes a project which developed 26 sophisticated spreadsheet templates designed to give students instant feedback on integrated case assignments in introductory accounting courses. The approach, however, can be used in any course with a quantitative component and can be used by any instructor with intermediate spreadsheet skills. Students were required to complete unique, pre-formatted templates programmed to provide feedback immediately following the completion of a cell formula. Anonymous questionnaires were completed by students at semesters end and faculty met to discuss their observations. Students reported that they liked the templates and spent more time on their homework because of the instant feedback, but were undecided as to whether completing the computer-graded templates helped them on exams. The faculty observed students to be more prepared to discuss the cases when the instant feedback templates were used.