Lessons Drawn from Implementation of Online Tutoring System in Physics Courses

Abstract

The online tutoring system CAPA was implemented at Afeka College in the academic year 2000-2001 in calculus based physics courses. It was used also in the academic year 2001-2002 and was very successful in improving understanding and achievements of the students. The paper describes the system features and the case study of its implementation. Lessons drawn from use of the CAPA system are discussed. The system no doubt contributed significantly to increased understanding and higher achievements in the final exams. This was at a price that students felt that they had to devote more time to study than traditionally required. The instructor has to invest more time than traditionally done in composing new problems and managing the system. However, the increased interaction with the students makes the teaching process much more interesting and rewarding.