Sunday, January 23, 2011

Assessing Assessment

   Formative assessment is an assessment that is made during the course of a lesson.  It is used to evaluate whether or not the learning program is obtaining the desired results so that an instructor knows if the program should be modified.  A summative assessment occurs at the end of a lesson.  It is used to make a final judgment about the achievements of the students.  Using this information, an instructor can evaluate the effectiveness of the course.
   Criterion-reference assessments are used to determine if a student has reached an objectively set level of competence. Norm-referenced assessments are used when there is no agreement on what a person must know.  Self-referenced assessments are used when the goals of the course are based on the personal goals of the student.
   Self-directed learning is directed towards sophisticated learners who are capable of post-formal thought.  They need constant feedback on how successful their work is. These students need self-referenced assessments and critiques from two or more peers on formative and summative levels.

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