I am an instructor of graphic design. The industry uses a variety of software programs that become the "tools of the trade". In introduction classes where they are learning the software it is affective to use a "project" to assess their understanding and use of the software they are using. Additionally it allows for an evaluation of their ability to use their creativity, problem solving and writing skills. This comprehensive approach usually does not require much more testing except occasional quizzes on specific processes used or short cuts for work flow efficiency.
The only courses I taught with weekly tests did not effectively measure student learning in my opinion. It seems as though the questions were difficult solely because it was an open book test (online course)and students spent most of the time looking for the exact answer in the text. They did not access a student's ability to synthesize. Assessing students successfully has been met through writing assignments coupled with discussion boards. Through this combination, I am able to gauge the learning that has taken place.
I agree 100%. I also typically use the evaluations/exams that come with the materials (sometimes editing them as I feel needed). However, I typically create my own quizzes based upon my classroom lectures/assignments.
I use the standardized test method because I believe that it asseses whether the students reached the objectives of the course, however I always based my lecture and delivery of materials on the test.
I use a mixture of multiple choice, completion and short answer to test material in different ways. My quizzes are all case studies, so they can think about the application of what they are learning in the real world. My final is also case studies so that they can utilize all the information they received during the course.
Our students have workbooks designed to complement their texts. They are required to do the T/F, Multiple Choice, & matching, but not the Case studies. This program is so fast paced the instrucor is challenged enough to prep and grade what is required. I believe case studies would help them with application and not just rote feedback.
Hi Mary Anne- Thanks for your post to the forum. You are obviously providing great visual feedback for your students!Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
The test from examview for each chapter and also I give the students spelling test that cover each chapter covered.
Discussion, quizzes, homework. However, multiple choice and completion tests are the two types of tests that best evaluate the ability of the subject matter I teach; namely, medical coding. Multiple choice questions allow students to choose the best alternative, while presenting cases for students to code allows students to approach issues from problem-solving standpoint (no answer choices given) and to think outside the box. Both skills are needed in the workplace.
In the course I teach they work with models applying makeup and then we photograph them. This test allows them to see how well they work with the public, the photographer, as well as the application itself.
I personally like true/false and multiple choice questions. With definitions I always use matching or fill in the blank. All of which have been successful methods.
Hi Sue- Thanks for your post to the forum. Your progressive approach to assessment is terrific! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. susan
I try to incorporate multiple choice, true/false and short answer in most of my class quizzes for students early in their program and then progress to essay and skill application tests at the end of the student's program. I also have learned that you can assess a student's knowledge without giving a "test"!!! By taking courses, like this one, you will continue to grow as a instructor.
I prefer the assessments which are specific and organized well.
Actual hands on after having them shown and given time for practice, before putting them to the test of showing the procedure. Our program is x-ray and since most of it is positioning and taking x-rays, hands on is the most effective way of knowning if they know the positions.
HI Doreen- Thanks for your post to the forum. Your choices of assessments are excellent! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Generally when developing assessment methods I look to the content at hand. If it is practical material that requires kinesthetic assessment than I implement competency checkoffs. If it is factual information than I have them do short answer. True false questions always seem to be difficult in my group of learners as many of them are ESL and have trouble translating.
Stewart, I use the same approach. The review worksheets I prepare have fill in the blank answers while the quiz is multiple choice.
I use short answer type questions. It allows me to test if the student has actually learned the objective or simply memorized definitions for matching and multiple choice. It gives me a better chance to we how the studetn can take the objective and put it into his/her own words while keeping the meaning.
A mixture of True or False, Multiple Choice and fill in the blank. I cover a lot of vocabulary terms, and fill in the blank helps assess comprehension.
