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Assessment allows both instructor and student to monitor progress towards achieving learning objectives, and can be approached in a
variety of ways. Formative assessment refers to tools that identify misconceptions, struggles, and learning gaps along the way and assess how to close those gaps. It includes effective tools for helping to shape learning, and can even bolster students’ abilities to take ownership of their learning when they understand that the goal is to improve learning, not apply final marks (Trumbull and Lash, 2013). It can include students assessing themselves, peers, or even the instructor,
through writing, quizzes, conversation, and more. In short, formative assessment occurs throughout a class or course, and seeks to improve student achievement of learning objectives through approaches that can support specific student needs (Theal and Franklin, 2010, p. 151). In contrast, summative assessments evaluate student learning, knowledge, proficiency, or success at the conclusion of an instructional period, like a unit, course, or program. Summative
assessments are almost always formally graded and often heavily weighted (though they do not need to be). Summative assessment can be used to great effect in conjunction and alignment with formative assessment, and instructors can consider a variety of ways to combine these approaches. Both forms of assessment can vary across several dimensions (Trumbull and Lash, 2013): Formative Assessment Ideally, formative assessment strategies improve teaching and learning simultaneously. Instructors can help students grow as learners by actively encouraging them to self-assess their own skills and knowledge retention, and by giving clear
instructions and feedback. Seven principles (adapted from Nicol and Macfarlane-Dick, 2007 with additions) can guide instructor strategies:
Instructors can find a variety of other formative assessment techniques through Angelo and Cross (1993), Classroom Assessment Techniques (list of techniques available here). Summative Assessment Because summative assessments are usually higher-stakes than formative assessments, it is especially important to ensure that the assessment aligns with the goals and expected outcomes of the instruction.
Considerations for Online AssessmentsEffectively implementing assessments in an online teaching environment can be particularly challenging. The Poorvu Center shares these recommendations. ReferencesNicol, D.J. and Macfarlane-Dick, D. (2006) Formative assessment and self‐regulated learning: a model and seven principles of good feedback practice. Studies in Higher Education 31(2): 2-19. Theall, M. and Franklin J.L. (2010). Assessing Teaching Practices and Effectiveness for Formative Purposes. In: A Guide to Faculty Development. KJ Gillespie and DL Robertson (Eds). Jossey Bass: San Francisco, CA. Trumbull, E., & Lash, A. (2013). Understanding formative assessment: Insights from learning theory and measurement theory. San Francisco: WestEd. Considerations for Online AssessmentsWhich statement is most accurate about a teacher preparation portfolio?What statement is most accurate about a teacher preparation portfolio? A teacher preparation portfolio may display growth or display best work.
Which of the following statements reflects education reformer Alfie Kohn's beliefs about the role of standardized tests in schools?Which of the following statements reflects education reformer Alfie Kohn's beliefs about the role of standardized tests in schools? Standardized tests are not "objective" or neutral measures of student academic performance.
How are teachers best advised to create an interactive video viewing experience for students quizlet?How are teachers best advised to create an interactive video viewing experience for students? Insert questions or writing prompt for students to answer while watching the video.
Which of the following is a reason why teachers might combine group work and cooperative learning with technology to promote student learning?Which of the following is a reason why teachers might combine groupwork and cooperative learning with technology to promote student learning? Students can teach each other when they work together. Which of the following statements best describes creativity when applied to the learning of students in schools?
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