New Study: Personalized Assessments Can Improve Instruction

Posted by in Uncategorized Oct 30th, 2008

Photo courtesy of iStockphoto, Image# 6649093

A new study shows that technology can be used to create personalized student assessments that improve teaching instruction. The Journal reports:

"Can technology improve the effectiveness of assessments? According to a new report issued Monday by the State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA), it can when it's used in a less formal setting and applied for the purpose of improving instruction and outcomes for students rather than merely taking a snapshot of students' knowledge at a given point in time.

The report does not advocate increased use of testing; rather, it advocates "using technology to assess students in a less formalized, yet more personalized, manner can glean benefits for teachers and students alike." It highlights innovative uses of technology in delivering formative assessments and also looks at the barriers schools face in implementing effective assessment strategies."

It makes sense to consider assessments as more than a student evaluation tool. When done correctly, they can provide valuable information for the professor. This is especially important in online classrooms, where teaching methodology is still being developed.

Did you enjoy this article?