When considering how to evaluate student learning in a course, most instructors would agree that the ideal assessment should do more than just measure comprehension. It should also function as a teaching tool, helping students improve their skills and deepen their understanding of the subject matter.  Think back on your own academic journey and a favorite assignment or project you had to complete.  What was it about that paticuluar assignment that made it so memorable and engaging for you?  Chances are that a key aspect of that assignment was authenticity.

Authentic assessment refers to activities that require the application of knowledge and skills in real-world situations or problems instead of merely testing the knowledge (Karunanayaka & Naidu, 2021). According to Grant Wiggins (1998), an assignment is authentic if it

• is realistic.
• requires judgment and innovation.
• asks students to “do” the subject.
• replicates or simulates the contexts in which adults are “tested” in the workplace or in personal life. 
• assesses the student’s ability to efficiently and effectively use a repertoire of knowledge and skills to navigate a complex task. 
• allows opportunities to rehearse, practice, consult resources, and get feedback on and refine performances and products.

Examples of Authentic Asessments

There are several options to consider when developing authentic assessments that measure both real-world skills and demonstrate student mastery.  Project assessments, portfolios, peer assessments and open-book exams can address the relevant curricular topics in your class.

Project-based Assessments 

Projects are a good solution for both engagement and demonstrating student skills and knowledge. This method encourages students to apply critical thinking, creativity, and self-direction as they work on complex, real-world challenges and problems over an extended period of time. Podcasts, images, research and websites are all options for project assessments.

Digital Portfolios

A digital portfolio is a collection of a student's work brought together in one accessible online space. Projects can include original text, images, audio or video recordings, PowerPoint presentations, or other digital content that evidences their learning journey. This type of assessment not only showcases students' academic progress but also their technical skills, and can be shared with potential employers as proof of mastery.

Peer and Self-Assessment

Encouraging students to evaluate their own and each other's work instills a sense of responsibility for their own learning process. This reflective practice can be a powerful tool for deepening comprehension, promoting empathy, and enhancing critical thinking abilities. Create a rubric for students so they know how to assess their peers clearly.

Open-Book Assessments

In an open-book exam, students use textbooks, notes, and online resources. Rather than merely recalling information, this requires students to demonstrate higher-order thinking skills like analysis, synthesis, application, and evaluation.

Interested in designing authentic forms of assessment for your class? Request a consultation with an LSA Learning and Teaching Consultant.

References:

Karunanayaka, S., & Naidu, S. (2021). Impacts of authentic assessment on the development of graduate attributes. Distance Education, 42(2), 231-252. https://doi.org/10.1080/01587919.2021.1920206

Wiggins, Grant. (1998). Ensuring authentic performance. Chapter 2 in Educative Assessment: Designing Assessments to Inform and Improve Student Performance. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, pp. 21 – 42.