Alternative assessments in educational evaluation

¶ … Adult Education

The explosion of adult education programs has given rise to the need for new educational models and methods of assessment. Old classroom standbys like graded recitations and pop quizzes are not as applicable for adults. These old methods are even more limited in an online environment.

In recognition of these limitations, researchers like Muirhead (2002) have proposed new assessment strategies for online colleges and universities. These new methods are geared towards full-online classes, where instructors and students meet in virtual classrooms and never in person. The assessment tools are also especially formulated for the needs and strengths of the adult learner.

Instead of quizzes that emphasize rote learning, Muirhead (2002) states that alternative assessment methods for online adult colleges should assess "authentic" learning. Thus, instead of memorizing facts, students should be encouraged to a "greater depth of knowledge," where they can connect their classroom learning to their daily lives. The alternative projects should thus encourage critical and reflective thinking. Finally, alternative assessment methods should also address the different learning styles of students.

In a traditional classroom, Muirhead finds that many teachers will rely on fewer assessment tools like term papers. However, the online adult instructor can focus on a different variety of assignments to evaluate knowledge and performance. This could include PowerPoint presentations, portfolios and book reviews.

Portfolios are particularly interesting, since adult students will be able to add to these and develop these further as the semester advances.

One of the methods that Muirhead suggests is Journal Writing. This technique works particularly well for the humanities and social sciences. Muirhead (2002) states that Journal Writing works well for a number of reasons. First, writing a journal is good memory aid. The writer also creates a new perspective when exploring different arguments. This new perspective creates a foundation for enhanced critical thinking and psychological skills. Finally, journal writing is also a self-directed activity that prepares students to critically understand and evaluate books and articles.

According to Muirhead (2002), the Journal Writing approach relies on a student-centered assessment philosophy. In this model, students are not empty vessels to be filled up with knowledge. Instead, students and instructors are seen as academic partners. The adult students are autonomous and independent, and much of their studying depends on innovative assignments and assessment tools.

Because much of the learning is student-centered and done independently, it is even more important for the instructor to provide clear feedback. Towards this, Muirhead (2002) recommends the development of a rubric that allows an instructor to effectively grade and render evaluation. Developing such a tool takes time, and must be geared towards the specific needs o the assignment and the class.