Reflections - A Catalog Mindtool and its Limitations

The tool was developed for practical use within a specific community of practice. In this field, custom publishing, managers may have to consider variance from existing specifications from time to time. The mindtool is an attempt to scaffold higher order thought processes in addition to the proxy goal of modeling a specific project.

My first peer criticism is that this is certainly arcane. It would be difficult to interpret the use of this mindtool outside of the community of practice for which it was designed. The intended use as a mindtool is based in the inherent capability of a spreadsheet to model "what if" scenarios.

The tool is intended to work as a desktop utility that could model a custom publishing project without having to refer to outside resources. There would be no need to call the printer, for instance, to solicit another hypothetical price quotation. The effect on the user would be to offer an instant solution, while facilitating critical thinking.

Difficulty with assessment is the other key problem with the tool. As a developer, I have attempted to create an assessment that is a generalized gateway to reflection, using the details of the project as a base. Since the learner is independent, there is no assurance that the assessment will be undertaken at all. If it is, the answer that the learner is given is not intended to be right or wrong, but just another point to consider.

Improvements that come to mind immediately include the fact the user interface is not as easy as it could be. Until I can script it, the user has to do the work of posting data in the spreadsheet. However, even the final script will still require the viewing of the manufacturing cost matrix in a separate window, and the user will have to determine the appropriate value to be entered. This learner involvement will help drive the issue of choices and comparison. After all, our purpose is to create a conduit to critical thinking, not just solve an immediate need.

Unfortunately, the great majority of the users of this tool will never go beyond basic utility, and this is a critical flaw. Just as a pocketknife might not excite as it slices the apple, this tool could be folded up and reinserted in pocket. However, I am encouraged that some learners may undergo conceptual change initiated by this technology, even in its current beta format.

I looked at several models that were much more complex, but that is a dead end, despite superior accuracy. Future development of this mindtool must focus on assessment, not on the specific application. The challenge will be to interact with the remote learners who are using the tool. Once this is hosted online, facilities will be created so that users can provide feedback and ask for an independent review of their project. This future engagement of the users will potentially allow this developer to gather information and then strengthen assessment accordingly.