We emphasize the importance of aligning assessments with learning objectives, ensuring that they accurately measure desired outcomes, clearly define what students are expected to do, and ensure that assessments measure these specific outcomes. This alignment ensures that assessments are meaningful and relevant, guiding students towards the intended learning targets.
Assessment Methods
We believe there are benefits of employing a diverse range of assessment methods to capture a comprehensive understanding of student knowledge and skills. Those methods include, but are not limited to:
- written exams
- projects
- presentations
- performance-based assessments
Our focus extends beyond traditional assessments by exploring the power of formative assessments. Ongoing practices such as quizzes, class discussions, and observations can provide timely feedback, guide instructional decisions, and foster continuous improvement.
Authentic assessment promotes student engagement and transfer knowledge by connecting learning to real-world contexts. We highlight the value of authentic tasks, problem-solving scenarios, and simulations in promoting deeper understanding and skill development, particularly for adult learners.
We invite you to explore our website and discover a wealth of resources and practical tips to enhance your assessment practices.
Resources
- Indiana University Bloomington. (n.d.). Authentic Assessments. https://citl.indiana.edu/teaching-resources/assessing-student-learning/authentic-assessment/index.html
- The University of Texas at Austin. (n.d.). Assessment Strategies for Online Learning. https://utexas.app.box.com/s/xms1dd4o8ixgm5kg8z92ufovas5grgvz
- The University of Texas at Austin. (n.d.). Assessment: Check for Learning. https://utexas.instructure.com/courses/1238294/pages/assessment-check-for-learning
- The University of Texas at Austin. (n.d.). Creating Checks for Learning. https://ctl.utexas.edu/instructional-strategies/creating-checks-learning
- University of Arkansas. (n.d.). Getting Started with Learning Outcomes. https://tips.uark.edu/getting_started_with-learning-objectives/
- University of Arkansas. (n.d.). Using Bloom’s Taxonomy to Write Effective Learning Outcomes. https://tips.uark.edu/getting_started_with-learning-objectives/
- University of Arkansas. (n.d.). Learning Outcomes: Examples and Before & After. https://tips.uark.edu/learning-objectives-before-and-after-examples/