Complex Models and Authentic Assessment | Rachel.E.D Learning Design

AUTHENTIC ASSESSMENT

An Authentic Assessment is one in which:

the student learns through the assessment process,
the task is a real world relevent application of the learning
the task is complex and requires the student to pull together multiple aspects of their learning
the student receives regular feedback and uses this feedback to further develop their work and
the student must use their own judgement in deciding how to combine and adapt their skills and knowledge.

The following slideshows showcase examples of Authentic Assessment in practice in a Primary School setting. Assessment does not occur in isolation, therefore these examples also illustrate two different teaching methods:

Experiential Learning

and

Gamification of Learning

From Local to Global

An example of Experiential Learning with Authentic Assessment

In a Grade Five Setting, the class are going to learn about Rivers for a cross curricular, Geography focused unit, adapted from the International Primary Curriculum. The learning objectives for the class during this unit are:

To understand and use Geographical terminology used to describe rivers.
To understand the importance of rivers to the history of human settlement.
To understand the main environmental importance of rivers: habitat, ecosystems.
To understand the environmental impact of human activity along rivers.
To develop research skills.
To develop oral and visual presentation skills.

Bakeshop Simulation

An example of Gamification with Authentic Assessment

In a Grade Three Setting, the class are having difficulties with word problems. The teacher decides to add the App "Motion Math: Cupcake!" To the classroom ipads, to encourage the children to get more practice in tackling word problems. The teacher's learning objectives are:

To identify which math operations to use in response to a word problem.
To correctly apply addition, subtraction and multiplication in a real world context.
To solve word problems involving money.
To think logically and solve problems, reflecting on reasons for success and failure.

The chosen App, "Motion Math: Cupcake!" is a bakery simulation, which combines practical application of Math concepts with the objective of designing and pricing a range of cupcakes to maximize your profits.

RACHEL E.D.