Exploring Educational Assessment in the Digital Age

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In a world that is becoming more digital, educators need to adjust their teaching methods to meet the evolving needs of their students.  In this pursuit, it is imperative to place importance on understanding modern education assessment practices.  By integrating different sources, educators can understand the current educational assessment landscape.


From standards-based grading to big data analytics, educators are leveraging technology to enhance learning outcomes and streamline assessment processes. Seth Battis' YouTube video on standards-based grading using Canvas Outcomes demonstrates the functionality of the Learning Mastery gradebook within Canvas, emphasizing the importance of assessing student progress against specific standards (Battis, 2016). Similarly, Aken's article introduces a system for classifying computer-based text analysis applications, providing insight into automated assessment and machine-assisted analysis techniques (Aken, 2017). Furthermore, Bill Cope and Mary Kalantzis' discussion on big data in education explores its transformative potential in learning (Cope & Kalantzis, 2016).  "Big data" in education involves collecting and analyzing vast amounts of data from digital learning environments for immediate feedback, adaptive instruction, and long-term analysis, supporting various educational purposes such as assessment, software design, and research (Cope & Kalantzis, 2016).  


However, as we embrace technology in education, challenges arise, particularly concerning online cheating and student integrity in online assessments. Ohio's adoption of computerized grading for state tests raises concerns about the accuracy and fairness of AI-based assessment tools (O'Donnell, 2018).  Although technology can improve efficiency and consistency, there is doubt among stakeholders about whether technology can accurately evaluate crucial aspects of student work, such as creativity and argumentation (O'Donnell, 2018). As educators, it's imperative to address these concerns by implementing strategies such as randomizing questions, setting time limits, and fostering a culture of academic honesty through clear communication and expectations to prevent online cheating and uphold academic integrity.


The insights gained from these resources are invaluable to both my role as an educator and my personal learning experience. Understanding standards-based grading and computer-based text analysis enables me to effectively evaluate student learning and provide targeted feedback. Furthermore, understanding big data analytics in education allows me to utilize technology to improve learning results and make decisions based on evidence. In order to make the most of these technologies, I understand the importance of further exploring ethical considerations in big data analytics and developing strategies to reduce online cheating.


Ultimately, it has become clear through exploring different sources that acknowledging the challenges of incorporating technology in educational assessment is as important as recognizing its significance. Educators can improve their teaching and learning experiences for everyone by staying updated and continuously learning about the ever-changing assessment practices.

Additional Resource



References

Aken, A. (2017) An Evaluation of Assessment-Oriented Computer-Based Text Analysis Paradigms. Higher Education Research, 2(4), 111-116.

Battis, S. (2016, June 7). Standards-Based Grading with Canvas Outcomes [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L64TykLXCd4

Cope, B., & Kalantzis, M. (2016). Big Data Comes to School: Implications for Learning, Assessment, and Research. AERA Open, 2(2).

Let's Summarize Ed. (2021, April 6). Big Data: Shaping the future of education [Video].  YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dm6YHVIXFM

O’Donnell, Patrick. (2018, March 19). Computers are now grading essays on Ohio’s state tests. Plain Dealer, The: Web Edition Articles (Cleveland, OH). https://www.cleveland.com/metro/2018/03/computers_are_now_grading_essays_on_ohios_state_tests_your_ch.html

Comments

  1. csifuentezMarch 4, 2024 at 12:07 PM

    Hi Ricardo,
    I enjoyed reading your blog post as your insights into modern assessment practices, including standards-based grading and big data analytics, were both informative and thought-provoking. Your integration of different sources provided a well-rounded perspective on the topic. I found it especially valuable how you discussed the practical applications of these assessment methods in enhancing learning outcomes and streamlining assessment processes for educators. I appreciated your balanced perspective on the benefits and challenges of integrating technology in education, as well as your proactive approach to addressing concerns like online cheating. I agree with you on including strategies like randomizing questions and setting time limits to maintaining academic integrity in digital learning environments.Your commitment to staying updated on evolving assessment practices and technological advancements reflects a dedication to providing the best possible learning experiences for your students. Keep up the great work!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Rachel GalvanMarch 4, 2024 at 4:41 PM

    Hi Ricardo,
    The opening of your blog really resonated with me. I also agree that teachers must adjust their teaching practices to meet student needs and that the traditional method may be less effective. You have effectively conveyed how an LMS like Canvas can be utilized for standards-based grading. The strategies you mentioned for minimizing cheating were very useful, and I especially agree with creating a culture of academic honesty. We can not rely on monitoring tools or lockdown browsers; we must teach students digital citizenship and academic honesty. I also have concerns over the accuracy of machine grading. A teacher recently told me that appealing a constructive response on the STAAR tests cost $50 but I could not locate information about this. If it is true, this may contribute to educators being reluctant to dispute a computer-based grade which is also concerning. Thanks for sharing your valuable insights.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Priscilla LunaMarch 6, 2024 at 3:25 PM

    Ricardo,

    This weeks blog post offers valuable insights into integrating technology into educational assessment. It effectively discusses the potential benefits and challenges associated with this integration. You provide a comprehensive overview of modern assessment practices facilitated by technology, offering a broad perspective on the topic. The most notable strength in your writing is the synthesis of special topics we learned in previous weeks, demonstrating a deep understanding of the subject matter. By integrating concepts from past discussions you enriched the narrative and highlighted the importance of continuous learning in the digital age. Overall, your blog emphasizes the need for educators to stay updated on evolving assessment practices and adapt to technological advancements. With its informative content and insightful analysis, you contribute meaningfully to discussions in educational technology. Keep up the great work!

    ReplyDelete

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