Assessment Tools

About Assessment Tools

Assessment is a way for educators to determine student progress toward achieving course objectives. There are three categories of assessments, each with a distinct purpose: Summative, Diagnostic, and Formative. Each type checks understanding in measurable terms which can include skills, knowledge, or attitudes. Assessment technologies are the digital tools which can enhance educator efforts to create virtual assessment activities, as well as to collect relevant data to enhance instruction and improve student learning.

Effective Practices in Learning Assessment

• Align assessments (and related learning activities) with measurable course objectives
• Minimize and limit bias, as well as remove less relevant distractors, when designing questions
• Show grading criteria and models prior to assessment activity (rubrics, rating scales, etc.)
• Support learner autonomy and growth with self-assessment opportunities
• Use diagnostic assessments (pre-tests, iRATS, tRATS, etc.) to gain insight for addressing knowledge gaps

To discuss more effective practices for using digital assessments, or assessments in general, schedule a meeting with one of our TLC consultants.

Effective Practices in Self-Assessment

• Involve learners in the process by providing standards for related tasks (checklists, rubrics, etc.) prior to performing assessment-related tasks
• Show students how to apply criteria to work evaluation
• Allow students to create mastery goals and desired outcomes for specific topics
• Implement instructional strategies (KWHL/KWL, Muddiest Point, etc.) that encourage active learning and inner reflection
• Clearly align self-assessments with course goals to prompt critical thinking, introduce concepts, and facilitate application to materials presented

To discuss more effective practices for self-assessment, schedule a meeting with one of our TLC consultants.

What's in our Ecosystem?

• ExamSoft: testing solution for delivering high-stakes tests online 
• Microsoft 365 Forms: lightweight app for surveys, quizzes, and polls
• Qualtrics: web-based survey service that supports survey collection and data reporting, 200 response limit
• Poll Everywhere: audience response system useful for interactive polling and assessment

 

 

References:

Andrade, H. (2019). A Critical Review of Research on Student Self-Assessment. Frontiers In Education, 4. doi: 10.3389/feduc.2019.00087

Association for the Assessment of Learning in Higher Education resources: https://www.aalhe.org/

Boud, D., & Falchikov, N. (Eds.). (2007). Rethinking assessment in higher education: Learning for the longer term. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.

Marchand-Martella, N., Wasta, S., & Martella, R. (1996). Applying the K-W-L Reading Strategy in Health Education. Journal Of School Health, 66(4), 153-155. doi: 10.1111/j.1746-1561.1996.tb08238.x