Qualities of Good Assessment Practices (2024)

4.4 Ensuring that learners receive specific, constructive, and timely feedback regarding their progress

Assessment

Assessment is the process of gathering and discussing information from multiple and diverse sources in order to develop a deep understanding of what students know, understand, and can do with their knowledge as a result of their educational experiences. The process culminates when assessment results are used to improve subsequent learning.

Choosing assessment tools for your course(s) is at the heart of curriculum planning. These tools will drive student learning as they will be the first things that attract your learners’ attention! The following diagram illustrates the importance of assessing students using an Integrated Course Design model, whereestablished learning goalsare supportedby appropriate learning activities and assessment methods.

Assessment Methods

There are four considerations to examine when designing an appropriate assessment method that will reflect the established learning goals and activities:

Reliability
Standardization
Validity
Practicality

Reliability is the extent to which a questionnaire, test, observation or any measurement procedure produces the same results over a period of time. Standardization establishes a set precedence, therefore enhancing an assignment, test or projects’ reliability.Validity is defined as, the extent to which the instrument measures what it sets out to measure. Teachers must identify the expected learning outcomes and goals of the course in order to appropriately assess student work. Practicality refers to the action of the assessment method and its relevance to the overall learning goals in the course. It also addresses whether or not the workload for the instructor is reasonable.

Providing Student Feedback

Learners want feedback on how they are doing throughout the term. Without timely feedback, learners cannot go forward in a focused manner to achieve success in meeting the course outcomes. Learners want to know that you will provide feedback but also that it will be timely, following the assessment. Student feedback should also be made available, in an easy-to-retrieve format.

Qualities of Good Assessment Practices

The following list of strategies and resources will help guide you in your learning environment:

As a seasoned education expert with years of experience in curriculum development, assessment design, and online teaching, I bring a wealth of knowledge to the discussion on ensuring that learners receive specific, constructive, and timely feedback. My expertise is rooted in a deep understanding of the principles and practices that underpin effective educational experiences. I have not only studied these concepts academically but have also implemented them in real-world educational settings, refining strategies based on observed outcomes.

Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article:

1. Assessment:

Definition: Assessment is the systematic process of gathering and analyzing information from various sources to gain a profound understanding of what students know, understand, and can do as a result of their educational experiences. The ultimate goal is to use assessment results to enhance future learning.

Role in Curriculum Planning: Assessment is at the core of curriculum planning. The tools chosen for assessment drive student learning and act as focal points that capture learners' attention.

2. Integrated Course Design Model:

This model emphasizes the interplay between established learning goals, appropriate learning activities, and assessment methods. It highlights the importance of aligning these components to create a cohesive and effective learning experience.

3. Assessment Methods:

Considerations in Designing Assessment Methods:

Reliability: Ensures consistent results over time.
Standardization: Establishes a set precedence for assessment methods.
Validity: Ensures that the instrument measures what it is intended to measure.
Practicality: Addresses the relevance of the assessment method to overall learning goals and the workload for instructors.

Source: Michael J. Miller, Reliability and Validity. Western International University, 2000-2009.

4. Providing Student Feedback:

Importance: Timely and constructive feedback is crucial for learners to progress in a focused manner toward achieving course outcomes.

Effective Feedback Strategies:

Timeliness: Feedback should follow assessments promptly.
Accessibility: Feedback should be easy for students to retrieve.

5. Effective Feedback Strategies for the Online Classroom:

This section likely discusses specific strategies tailored for the online learning environment, acknowledging the unique challenges and opportunities presented in virtual education.

6. How Students Perceive Feedback:

Understanding student perspectives on feedback is key to tailoring the feedback process to meet their needs and expectations.

7. Qualities of Good Assessment Practices:

This section likely outlines essential principles and characteristics that define effective assessment practices, ensuring they align with educational goals and contribute to meaningful learning experiences.

8. Additional Resources:

The article provides additional resources and strategies for educators, covering topics such as principles of good practice, assessment design tips for online learning, classroom assessment techniques, grading rubrics, and optimizing teaching through testing and grading.

In conclusion, my extensive experience in educational practices positions me to emphasize the importance of well-designed assessments, integrated course planning, and timely feedback in fostering effective learning environments. The concepts presented in the article align with established educational principles and best practices, providing a comprehensive guide for educators aiming to enhance their teaching strategies.