Technology and Assessment

Technology has an important role to play in assessment. It can be used to assist with grading and record keeping, journals, self-evaluations, performance tasks and portfolios. Technology has helped to launch a revolution in the ways that students demonstrate their learning. Technology is helping to create new ways of thinking, communicating, teaching and assessing.

Considerations:

• Consider using technology (personal digital assistants, bar code readers) to record learning and behavioral observations in the classroom.
• Technology (calculators, computers, touch-screen monitors) can help all students succeed in problem solving tasks by allowing them to bypass certain neuro-motor frustrations. Allow the use of these technologies in testing situations.
• Consider computer software that emphasizes conjecture and discovery in math and science. Telecommunications options allow students to share what they and others are learning.
• Electronic portfolios and grade sheets allow teachers to improve their communication of assessment feedback to the students and parents throughout the semester, not just at reporting times.