Awarding points for class presentations and problem solutions.
I like the idea of building on a portfolio project. One where each new step builds upon the steps previously learned so that both new information and old information are constantly being addressed.
Hi Joe- Thanks for your post to the forum. Having students demonstrate whether they can "teach-back" is to me the ultimate assessment! Best wishes- Susan
Sometimes I will ask the students to prepare a very brief power point on a short section (maybe a few pages) and share their understanding. I will teach as well, sharing points and opening up discussion after they complete. Most often I will assign this "teach," period up front and will frequently assign a small group (2) for their "teach."
As a culinary instructor, much of our learning takes place in the kitchen during production or cooking. I walk around the kitchen during their cooking and ask questions about the production at hand and also ask if the techniques they are using remind them of other dishes they have prepared. By asking them to draw parallels, I reinforce their learning.
I like having the students split into groups and teach a topic to the entire class.
Oral testing of programmatic understanding.
Hi Karen - I really like the idea of journals in some classes. I find that often the students who protest about them initially, find that they get a lot out of their journals in the end. Susan
I use journaling throughout the class as another form of assessment. Some students are more comfortable stating what they know through writing. I also use general questioning and discussion in class...this gives those more comfortable answering verbally a chance to show what they know.
Hi Karen- Since the classes that I teach are mostly soft skills/general education, I do not use Portfolios, however, most of our technical and Graphic design, multimedia faculty do. It usually is a grade of Pass/Fail based on whether they have demonstrated that they have met the competencies set for the course. Best wishes- Susan
I like to assess students in group projects and in one-on-one oral exams. This really tests their knowledge beyond the text book and shows they are able to talk about and discuss the information they just learned.
I know that some small private colleges were using portfolios for assessment instead of objective testing. Employers and regulators wanted to see concrete grades and test results, so they have been doing these in addition to the portfolios or instead of portfolio items. Do you grade the students' portfolios with A, B, etc.?
Classroom discussions can be facilitated to find out what they are understanding, and what they have questions about. Doing an internship, and getting feedback from the site supervisor is valuable for learning what they need to know in their field.
Hi Mike- Portfolios can also be very useful to showcase a graduates ability in job interviews. Best wishes! Susan
While reading the responses to this forum I would have to agree with the idea of a portfolio review.
A portfolio is the end result of what the student has not only achieved in a specific class, but also a demonstration of personal growth. Areas to review in a final portfolio piece are craftsmanship, quality of concept (which is subjective) and final execution. One other element that is rarely mentioned with this type of assessment is the oral defense. A student must be able to verbally defend the idea, applying a logical step-by-step process backed up by an accepted rational.
To help an instructor be more objective about a subjective topic, they must not only be aware of historical visual influences, but also current stylistic trends. An important thing for an instructor to remember is that their personal taste cannot and should not detract from the end result.
Active learning techniques could be also used as assessment tools. This would include things like role playing and problem solving excercises. This type of activity allows for immediate feedback in assessing student abilities. It also allows the student to see the level of learning as applied to actual situations.
Hi Sean - Particpating in activities like the "Experiential Learning" that you mention, also increases the retention of the relevant concepts because the student has to utilize the concepts to make the decisions. Great work!
Susan
I utilize a simulation where students make decisions based upon their knowledge of particular subjects. In essence they are applying the theory they learn in the reading assignments and lectures to simulated situations that challenge and reinforece their understanding of the material. This type of "experiential learning" is sometimes uncomfortable for students because they are afraid to make mistakes in their decisions, but more often than not it ends up being the most rewarding in terms of their overall educational experience
I like using written assignments and presentations. I also like portfolio's if it is appropriate for the class you are teaching.
I teach a Speech/Communication class and also a Psychology class. In both of those I have found role playing as good method of assessment. Within the role play there are certain parameters and certain concepts that must be demonstrated. I also frequently ask student to demonstrate a pro/con or do/not do role play so as to further evaluate how students are applying the information being discussed.
