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Malikah R. Nu-Man and Tamika M. Porter
Assessing learning through the use of technology has received much attention in recent years due to the ability to access student progress quickly and provide individual feedback in real-time (Timmis et al., 2016). Technology increases an educator’s ability to efficiently make decisions before, during, and after a lesson that will impact student learning outcomes. Also, assessments help identify what a student knows, determine appropriate placement, select appropriate curriculum to meet student needs, and assist with identifying referral services.
There are many forms of assessments. This section of the book will focus on two — formative and summative. Formative assessments are administered to students throughout the learning process and help teachers determine how students are performing through defined learning goals. Summative assessments, on the other hand, are given at the end of a school year or learning unit, and “sum” up a student’s mastery of a topic after instruction. Technology, when paired with assessments, becomes a powerful tool because it supports individual student learning, gives direct access to essential learning supports, and enhances collaboration skills. In addition, it helps teachers in meeting their learning objectives and goals while assessing student performance (Steele, 2014).
The present chapter presents an overview of what assessments are, the varying forms of assessments, and digital tools that can be used to increase teacher and student performance. Followed by, a narrative from a practicing teacher who has benefited personally from assessing learning through the use of technology. Assessment is exceptionally vital to instruction. As educators, we benefit from enhancing our technological skills and incorporating innovative tools to track student progress and success.
Importance of Assessment
The assessment process and end results are a vital part of any teacher’s role. Per Pellegrino, “an assessment is a tool designed to observe students’ behavior and produce data that can be used to draw reasonable inferences about what students know” (Pellegrino, 2003, p. 7). Tests and writing prompts along with presentations and projects are each forms of assessment. With assessments, educators can determine if learning objectives have been met. They also can attempt to quantify how students are experiencing their learning. Student grades, placement, instructional needs, advancement and curriculum are guided by assessment.
Assessment is critical because it also allows students to gauge their own learning (Shepard, 2000). Granting students access to their performance in class and demonstrating whether they understand the material covered enhances their learning experience and development. Assessment not only supports students, it also helps teachers. Consistent use of varying assessments aide educators in determining if their teaching has been adequate for students. It can also ensure that