Technology Tools and the Assessment Process

            Chapter seven is about technology tools and the assessment process.  Teachers are able to blend various technology tools within assessment activities and it allows the teacher to match a student’s learning style with the appropriate assessment tool, which ensures that the instructor will connect with the student to obtain desired results.  This chapter discusses the topic of student-centered assessment within the context of a technological environment.  A connection between technology and learning is established, then specific technology tools available for the classroom is discussed, and online assessment is addressed.

            Student-centered assessment helps educators focus on students’ becoming self-directed in learning plans and activities.  Self-directed learners are defined as a student who takes responsibility for his or her learning.  Student-centered model of learning encourages teachers to view their students as academic partners who work together to produce relevant and meaningful learning experiences.  Technology provides educators with tools to develop alternative and individualized informal and formal assessments which provide feedback for students and educators.  Teachers have to understand though that technology must be used with a purpose.  There must be a connection between technology use and learning.

            Classrooms have changed throughout the years.  Now there are computers, projections screens, new software, and other technological devices.  Classrooms now have Smartboards which is a large screen that acts as a touch-sensitive computer monitor.  I had never used a Smartboard until my internship and they are very useful.  There are so many ways Smartboards are used and the students really enjoy using them also.  Some schools also use a laptop cart, which can change any classroom into a computer lab.  Another type of classroom is the hybrid classroom which is a face-to-face classroom that blends online tools into class content and assessment.

            Informal assessment is a way of measuring student learning and is very important.  It allows educators to make adjustments during the course.  Smartboards, student response systems, Breeze Presenter, simulations, reinforcement software, drill and practice software which is tutorials and games can be used.  I have only a couple of these assessment tools and they are great.  The students enjoy using a variety also.

            Formal assessment tools include web-based tools, course management tools, and online conferencing tools.  There are exam generators, application software, screen capture software, and online conferencing tools.  The only experience I have with this type is from the online courses in this program.

            The different tools and assessment processes discussed in this chapter are very helpful.  I know that I will be able to use many of them and I am looking forward to the feedback of my students to let me know if they gain anything out of the class.

Wilkinson, Kelly, L. (2007). Technology Tools and the Assessment Process. In M.L. Bush (Ed.), Assessment for an Evolving Business Education Curriculum (pp. 88-101). Reston, VA: National Business Education Association