Assessments and E Portfolios

Assessment activities are used to assess the learner. In other words, to determine how much information the learner has retained or can recall. There are many types of assessments available ranging from pen and paper to technological possibilities. If assessments were not available or performed, then it would be nearly impossible to determine how effective the lesson at hand is being taught. Once an assessment is performed, it can tell an instructor so much valuable information concerning a learners strenghts, weaknesses, and even the qualities of the lesson. Therefore allowing future improvement.

Generally speaking, a portfolio is a collection of work. It is composed of someones best work in order to show the type of work they are capable of performing. An e-portfolio is an electronic version of a portfolio. It allows someone to still compose there best work and reflect on it, but in a much simpler concise manner. There are benefits to e-portfolios. All of the work is stored and can be viewed by anyone if you allow it. This enables the candidate to show it to anyone without having to actually be there. It also helps to keep all of the information in one spot and organized efficiently. It helps both teachers and students by allowing assessment on ones skills. Both the teacher and the student can review the work, along with the reflections, and determine the level of understanding and where growth can be achieved. Computer based testing is an assessment that is given on a computer. I feel that this valid means of providing assessment, assuming that the testing is created thougtfully, and that the testing areas are monitored.

I was really interested in reading about the electronic portfolio. We have talked so much throughout my education courses about creating a portfolio and I think that this is a really good way to allow high access to your abilities, as well as combine and keep everything organized. I also think it is a great tool to comprehend as an educator. I highly agree with the book and the negative impact that "teaching the test" can have on students. I have always felt that it is more important for students to understand the why's and how's or what teach as opposed to memorizing specifics. In math, if you can reason through, you can solve almost anything, but I see so many students just trying to memorize a formula.

Resources:

Jonassen, David, Howland, Jane, Marra, Rose, and Crismond, David. (2008). Meaningful Learning with Technology. 217-239. New Jersey: Pearson Prentice Hall