An evaluation of the Using Information Technology program at East Tennessee State University [electronic resource] /

by Chenoweth, John Dalton.; State University., East Tennessee

This dissertation presents information gathered and analyzed during an evaluation study of the Using Information Technology (UIT) program at East Tennessee State University. The UIT program, which all undergraduate students must complete before graduation, consists of satisfying a computer literacy foundation requirement and a two course UIT-intensive requirement. The foundation requirement is satisfied by completing a two credit hour course or a challenge exam. Students then take two courses that have been designated as UIT-intensive. One of these courses must be completed in the major. The study, which used a responsive evaluation methodology, involved generating a list of evaluation questions based on discussions with key decision makers. Then, multiple data sources including surveys, interviews, document reviews, pre-tests, and focus groups were used to address these questions. The general conclusion of the study was that the UIT program was effective in helping students gain appropriate computer competencies. However, several recommendations have been made that should help to improve the program.