Topics: Definition of Assessment

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Topics: Definition of Assessment

Factors Considered in Assessment

What is Assessment?
The word ‘assess’ comes from the Latin verb ‘assidere’ meaning ‘to sit with’.
•In assessment one is supposed to sit with the learner. This implies it is
something we do ‘with’ and ‘for’ students and not ‘to’ students (Green, 1999). 
Definition • Assessment is the process of documenting, usually in measurable
terms, knowledge, skill, attitudes, and beliefs. 
Meaning: Assessment is a process by which information is obtained relative
to some known objective or goal. Assessment is a broad term that includes
testing. A test is a special form of assessment. Tests are assessments
made under contrived circumstances especially so that they may be
administered.
Definitions
Allen (2004): Assessment involves the use of empirical data on student
learning to refine programs and improve student learning. Huba and Freed
(2000): 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.
Nature of assessment
Assessment is embedded in the learning process. It is tightly interconnected
with curriculum and instruction. As teachers and students work towards the
achievement of curriculum outcomes, assessment plays a constant role in
informing instruction, guiding the student’s next steps, and checking progress
and achievement.
Classroom assessment involves students and teachers in continuous
monitoring of students’ learning.  It provides opportunity for close observation
of students in the process of learning.  Assessment has profound impact on
the self- esteem of pupils, which is critical influence on learning.
Functions of assessment
. • Monitoring the progress • Decision making • Screening • Diagnostic
process • Placement of students in remedial courses
What can be assessed?
Student learning characteristics 
Ability differences
Learning styles
Student motivational characteristics
Interest
-Self-efficacy 
Goal orientation
Learning 
Content knowledge
Ability to apply content knowledge
Skills
Dispositions and attitudes
Performances
How should we assess?
True –False Item, Multiple Choice, Completion, Short Answer Essay,
Practical Exam, Papers/Reports, Projects Questionnaires, Inventories,
Checklist, Peer Rating, Self Rating, Journal, Portfolio, Observations,
Discussions, Interviews

Examples of Assessments for Learners

1. Draw a concept map in class to represent their understanding of a topic.

2. Submit one or two sentences identifying the main point of a lecture.

3. Low-stakes quizzes and polls

4.  Methods that incorporate art

5. Interview assessments

Creating Your Assessment

1. How long will the students need to finish the assessment?

2. How much time will you have for grading?

3. Could using technology help either of these time issues?

Criteria In Choosing an Assessment Method


It should be reliable.
It should be valid.
It should be simple to operate, and should not be too costly.
It should be seen by students and society in general.
It should benefit all students.
Who should be involved in assessment?
The teacher
The student
The student’s peer
Administrator
Parents
What should we do with the information from our assessment?
Use it to improve the focus of our teaching (diagnosis)
Use it to focus student attention of strengths and weaknesses (motivation)
Use it to improve program planning (program assessment)
Use it for reporting to parents
References:
https://www.slideshare.net/armovil/assessment-of-student-learning
https://blog.mimio.com/things-to-consider-when-creating-assessments
https://www.slideshare.net/rdhaker2011/assessmentppt
https://www.slideshare.net/JanardanMogare/meaning-nature-and-functions-
of-assessment

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