on all of the tests that i give to the learners, there is a bit of all the different types of tests so that i am easily able to evaluate the students progress. I also try to grade all of the assessments myself to get a better idea of who is catching on to each subject.
I am a cosmetology insturctor. The school utilizes Pivot Point International for our curriculum. They have instructor guides as well as test bank generator. These are different from the standardized tests that are used for each chapter, unit and/or final test. Therefore I can constantly change my format to see what knowledge the students have retained or what areas I need to focus in on.
What subjects do you teach and where do you get the test banks?
I have several different testings banks to choose from. I then create my own test and administer. The test covers several areas of topics. I combine T/F questions, a matching section as well as essay question to asses their knowledge and retention level. This works well.
The hands on test is a very powerful assessment especially in career education.
The criteria of the test depends of the the content of the courses taught. In the software classes, for example PowerPoint the students must build a presentation using the techniques covered in class. There would also be a written test to show an understanding of terms used in PowerPoint. In the Accounting class I use several different types Matching and completion to show an understanding of Accounting terms. They must also do a hands-on test where they journalize real life business transactions and then post them to the appropriate ledgers and then build financial statments.
You are wise to combine testing methods. Too many instructors become accustomed to one or two methods and that limits what they can determine.
As an accounting instructor, I design my tests so that several areas of testing are covered. I usually include both true/false and multiple choice questions combined with problem-solving so that I can accurately assess the scope of my students' knowledge on the subject and application of any skills learned.
I have had exactly the same experience George. I will never forget the mock interview I did with a student who had real self-esteem issues. She did a great job in the mock-interview and I told her so and congratulated her on her imminent graduation. I then asked her what she planned to do after graduation? She said that the first thing she would do was to take her diploma to her high school guidance counselor who had told her she would never be able to earn a post-secondary degree. I still feel the chills and the hug I gave her - "You go Girl!!"
Andrew,
I couldn't agree with you more on this....feeling a sense of an accomplishment plays a major role.
Interrupt multiple systems or components of an engine, and have the student correct all problems to restore the engine to running condition within manufacturer's specifications.
I agree - I have found that most career colleges emphasize student satisfaction with their learning and accomplishments. What sort of skill testing might an instructor at AEC use to assess expertise levels?
