In a math course I look at authentic assessments in a different way. The more recent textbooks use more realistic examples that students can relate to. The most common question is 'when will I ever use this stuff?' It is nice to see more built in real world examples to set students minds at ease since my standard answer of critical thinking skills doesn't always resonate unfortunately.
As I teach an intro to philosophy course, this is especially difficult to do in a way where students see the performance as valid. While philosophy applies daily to their lives, students have a hard time moving beyond the "it's common sense!" defense. To that end, at the end of each unit students construct written responses to situations that require them to apply their knowledge. It doesn't always work out as well as I'd like, but it's undoubtedly authentic assessment.
Michael,
That is a great way to utilize that type of assessment in a course that already has set assessment. You want students to use the new knowledge.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Sandy ,
I agree with you! Authentic assessments being the real world into the classroom. You want your students to connect the learning with the professional world.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Our course material does not have any opportunity to grade or evaluate any authentic materials but we do bring this type of learning into our office hours. We have many students who bring questions and challenges they experience to the office hour and many students can learn from us collectively working on these issues.
I have used authentic assessments in project assignments that are aligned with real world situations.
I think authentic assignments and assessments are very effective for adult learners who bring a variety of experience to the table.
I know it made all the difference to me in grad school where authentic assessment was the norm.
Michael,
To measure performance, a rubric is essential. I agree with you.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Ryan,
It is interesting that the sessions are now only 5 weeks which for some research doesn't allow for valid assessment. You have to do what you have to do.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
We don't use portfolios or observations, but we do use performance. A strong rubric has made this process much easier than in the past, when I didn't use one -- it allows students a much clearer vision of my expectations.
Our class sessions are only 5 weeks. Unfortunately we have not employed authentic assessment opportunities into our curriculum.
Jennifer,
You have the perfect medium to create the role of facilitator for the student. They can consult with you on what should represent their work. What an opportunity.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
By using "portfolios" I'm able to really work one on one with my students giving them weekly assessments that specifically meet their needs to achieve success.
Penelope,
I agree and they will try to copy exactly the examples you provide. I quit showing examples of papers as I found they followed formatting errors.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Penelope,
Great! You would be surprised with the faculty who don't use that type of guide. Change is hard . . .
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Russell,
What great strategies. Don't you think your students benefit from this assessment strategy by transferring their knowledge ans skills to real world environment?
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
The structure of my online course is designed with a combination of alternative and authentic assessments. The alternative assessments involve discussion board assignments that contain questions students respond to, and to each other. This is in contrast to individual projects that are presented in the form of essay writing. Students research information from different sources and write on specific assignment requirements. As the essay assignments progress through the course, students develop higher order thinking skills by observing and describing form and subject matter, synthesizing methodologies with materials, and evaluating purpose.
You are also right in that you want to show them some creative examples but not too much to give all the answers otherwise they may become bored.
I evaluate all projects with a rubric of course.
Tonia,
I really like that! It makes so much sense and if you are using it throughout your courses that really makes an impact on your students. Nice!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Although not included in every course at my institution, we use the THINK, BUILD, LIVE, SUCCESS,series as a component for higher, out of the box learning. The TBLS component allows students to focus on how they would respond to various aspects of their personal lives. Such as time management, self motivation, and personal needs which may be barriers to completing their program.
