I include one presentation per term. This provides the students with the flexibility to be creative in explaining what they have learned, as well as exposes them to verbal questions and answer segments regarding their presentation. I open the question and answer portion to the entire class for greater variability in questions, perspectives, and learning.
I have used writing portfolios in my online courses. They are very useful in helping to show students the depth of the writing they have done throughout the quarter. The portfolio also allows students to be more focused on their work holistically rather than focus on minor details. ~Melissa
Carolyne,
Nice! It does help students to see how the "real world" uses these tools as well as assess their learning.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
The last assignment of the term is based on a real-life performance assignment. Students must show they know how to use Word, Excel, and PowerPoint by creating documents of their choice based on a particular topic. A rubric for each application is provided.
Aubrie,
That is true, you have a content that NEEDS authentic assessment.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
We utilize a mix of different authentic assessments. The content of Graphic Design provides a perfect opportunity to assess students in several different authentic ways, including hands on activities as well as portfolio development.
Beth,
You get it! Relating to real world experiences is such an effective tool. I think that is what makes authentic assessment so powerful.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
The courses that I am currently teaching online do not utilize authentic assessment. However, I find the greatest opportunity to have students relate real world experiences with the curriculum is in the discussion forums. This promotes greater understanding as they make the connection between concepts they are learning and the real world.
Tina,
True, and I don't think you can dismiss that! Actually an authentic assessment tied to billing and coding may make it more "real" for students to have that important foundational knowledge.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Tina,
There is some research that shows are better applying concepts when put into a "real world" experience. It can also be tied to experiential learning.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Nice post Richard!
I teach in medical billing and coding and it does take some time to get to the level of understanding of the material for much of it to be used in the "authentic" manner.
T. Cressmsan
No we have not used authentic assessment in the level of courses I teach.
Does the use of these assessments help to differientiate the differences in student future success?
T. Cressman
Cindy,
Great post. Yes, it is so important that students understand how the knowledge or skill they are learning fits in the "real world". I think students need that.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Authentic assessments play a huge role in design and advertising related courses. Students have to be able to learn concepts and skills, then apply them to a variety of real life situations, like branding, advertising, radio scripts, art projects, propaganda posters and more. These assessments allow students to grow their portfolio, even working with particular clients, and gain real world experience that will help them get a job and be proficient in the work force.
Chelsea,
What an interesting feature. Being able to receive and give constructive criticism is so important and it makes students apply the course knowledge at a higher level.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Linda,
What a great technique. It makes students internalize their new knowledge. Nice!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Ester,
You are not along in the limited control of a course. You are using what you can to incorporate authentic assessment for your students. Yes, students love the connections to the real world.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Theran,
What a great post!!!! You are right. Authentic assessment brings in that information they were to learn in other classes to help in decision making. So many times students just learn what they have to to pass the course.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
We have a course gallery feature that allows students to submit their work and have other students and the instructor view and critique their artwork. This is often the best learning tool for students as they get a lot of feedback that is constructive and it helps them build confidence. They also tend to be more creative, because they aren't answering specific questions, but working in a more open environment.
I work in the healthcare industry and often work with adults training to be medical administrative assistants. I often ask them to use their personal life experiences and think about situations they have seen or been involved with in a clinic situation. I then attempt through the use of open ended questions, have a student apply what they know about professionalism and ethics to these situations for a better outcome.
