Assessment Technology in Education

In the world of education and learning, assessment plays a pivotal role in evaluating student progress, understanding their strengths and weaknesses, and guiding instructional strategies. Our classmates did a wonderful job eloquently guiding us through the history of assessment in education, while also providing challenges moving forward that we must disrupt to provide students with a quality, equitable, and effective school experience. Over the years, several groundbreaking innovations have transformed the landscape of assessment, paving the way for more efficient, accurate, and inclusive testing practices. In this blog post, I would like to outline some of the important readings assigned as well as discuss my three key takeaways from the week.

In the following blog post, several assessment strategies are outlined as a historical examination of the changes and improvements to assessment via technology. The following strategies were presented: Multiple-Choice Question (MCQ); SmartItem Technology; Answer Sheets and Scanners; Item Response Theory (IRT) and Adaptive Testing; Computerized Testing; Discrete Option Multiple Choice™ (DOMC); and Internet and Online Testing. These innovations have significantly impacted assessment practices, offering greater efficiency, security, flexibility, and accessibility in testing. However, these assessment strategies are not simply functional without the human element of education. No matter what assessment strategies are incorporated, teachers must first build relationships with their students and learn their tendencies as learners to ensure they are offered accessible ways to show what they know in school.

Our presenters did a wonderful job outlining the historical changes of assessment in education. They also helped us understand the many challenges that cause possible problems in the classroom. With that, I have narrowed down my thinking to three key takeaways.

1. Diversification: Instead of solely relying on technology-friendly assessment formats like multiple-choice questions, educators should incorporate a variety of assessment types. This includes performance-based assessments, projects, portfolios, and peer evaluations, which offer a more holistic view of student learning and skills. It is also important to have students be part of the assessment process, co-constructing assignments to ensure students have ownership and can take value in what they are learning.
2. Formative Assessment: Technology can be particularly useful for formative assessment, providing immediate feedback and insights into student understanding. As we witnessed in the presentation, there are simple tools out there to provide formative feedback in a very quick turnaround. Educators should leverage tools that facilitate ongoing assessment and adjustment of instruction to better meet student needs.
3. Equity and Inclusivity: Considerations of equity and inclusivity are essential when using assessment technologies. This includes ensuring that technology tools are accessible to all students, addressing potential biases in assessments, and being mindful of cultural and social factors that may impact student performance. There were several examples of how assessments throughout history have had a Eurocentric bias that does not support the growing diversity of our schools in Canada. It is extremely important to disrupt these practices and ensure for more equitable opportunities for students!

Assessment has continued to develop over the past centuries, specifically since COVID with the influx of technological tools. Two ways that we can benefit students in a substantial way when it comes to assessment are:

Professional Development and Training: Educators need adequate training and professional development to effectively use assessment technologies in ways that align with good assessment practices. This includes understanding how to interpret data, provide meaningful feedback, and use technology tools ethically. As an administrator, this is a way I can develop my instructional leadership skills and provide support to staff in an ever-increasing technological profession.

Engaging Students in the Assessment Process: Involve students in the assessment process by encouraging self-assessment, peer assessment, and goal setting. Technology can support these activities by providing platforms for collaborative work, reflection tools, and goal-tracking features.