Closing the Semester Strong: Innovative Approaches to Assessment
With Fall 2024 drawing to a close, this is a great time to reflect on assessment strategies that can enhance student learning and uphold academic integrity. Recent discussions in higher education offer valuable insights into effective assessment practices.
- Ashely Mowreader’s article for Inside Higher Ed explores the use of exam wrappers—tools that prompt students to reflect on their exam preparation and performance. These reflections encourage students to identify effective study strategies and areas for improvement, fostering metacognitive skills that are crucial for lifelong learning.
- Abby L. Kalkstein and Justin L. Rheubert discuss the benefits of blended assessment methods in their recent Faculty Focus article. They advocate for combining formative and summative assessments to create a more comprehensive evaluation of student learning. This approach not only measures student performance but also actively involves students in the learning process, promoting deeper engagement and understanding.
- Beth McMurtrie and Beckie Supiano addresses the challenges of maintaining academic integrity amid increasing concerns about cheating in their latest Teaching newsletter for The Chronicle of Higher Education. The article emphasizes the importance of designing assessments that minimize opportunities for dishonesty and encourage authentic learning experiences. Strategies include creating unique, application-based questions and fostering a classroom culture that values integrity and ethical behavior.
By thoughtfully integrating these practices, we can create assessment experiences that not only evaluate student learning effectively but also contribute to their ongoing academic development.
