I feel like I have had a good amount of experience using Web 2.0 tools in my personal life; however, for learning and/or teaching purposes I have not had much experience. I, of course, created a lesson last semester for the EDUC 311 course that involved the use of a Web 2.0 tool, but that is the only time that I have used one for teaching. I am currently in the process of writing a lesson plan that incorporates the use of a Web 2.0 tool, but I have not finished it or used it in the classroom yet. I am excited to begin using more internet tools, and just technology in general; I think that students enjoy it and learn more from interactive lessons.
So far, the only type of assessment that I have made use of is discussion. I like to ask the students what they know about a certain topic at the beginning of a lesson, and then I ask them again at the end of the lesson. By comparing the two sets of answers, I can determine what they have learned and what needs to be retaught. Also, one time, I used a short quiz at the end of a lesson to ascertain what they had gained from the activity. In the next few weeks, however, I plan to use two different types of assessment. The first will be a visual representation of a character analysis, and the other will be a persuasive blog. I am really excited about these two activities; I think they will give students a chance to do something different and interesting while using a medium that they already know how to operate (both activities will be completed on a computer).
Question: What are some types of assessment that you have used, and what did you like or dislike about them? Also, have you done anything that you consider fun or interesting that you think I should try?
It's necessary to establish prior knowledge when introducing a lesson. It not only lets you know what students know, but it may also peak the students' interest a little and make them more receptive to the lesson. You can do the same thing orally at the end of the class or the next day (I know, not an option for you) or the next time you're with them.
ReplyDeleteI really like you ideas for the visual representation and the blog. With these activities, you'll be able to do a deeper assessment by finding out how students will apply the knowledge they have gained. Along those same lines, end-of-lesson projects are also an effective assessment tool. Kids also have to implement the things they have learned. Their future employers are looking for people who are able to put ideas into practice.
Great blog!
I have just about the same amount of experience with assessment as you do! I have held discussions before starting and after ending the lesson, but I want to try new things too! I believe discussion is a great way to gauge the students' learning, but it can get boring quickly.
ReplyDeleteThe only other type of assessment that I have been able to use was a quiz on an internet science lab. It was an interactive lab about chemical properties, and at the end the students were able to get "Tomahawk" points (Positive Behavior Support Program at my PDS)for answering a question correctly. The students were really engaged, and loved the competition that the points raised. It was a great experience, but I am with you on trying to find new ways to decide whether or not the students have mastered the material.