The purpose of this course is to introduce different techniques used in assessment of knowledge in a classroom setting. There are three distinct subunits which include: Assessing student's prior knowledge, assessing student learning with a specific focus on creating assignments and exams, and assessing student learning with a specific focus on group work and creating rubrics. Supplemental information on the fundamentals of assessment will also be provided.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this self-study course, participants will be able to:

1. Justify the importance of prior knowledge assessments before a course or program (Level III)
2. Explain the benefits and drawbacks to performing self-assessments in a course or program (Level II)
3. List the different types of classroom assessment techniques (CATs) that can be used to assess students’ prior knowledge of a topic (Level I)
4. Explain the criteria used for performing self-assessments (Level II)
5. Evaluate the need for CATs in a modern classroom (Level III)
6. Define concept mapping (Level I)
7. Produce a concept map of a complex topic (Level III)
8. List the important considerations when creating assignments (Level I)
9. Apply the considerations to creating engaging assignments that promote learning and retention (Level II)
10. List the important considerations when creating exams (Level I)
11. Apply the considerations to creating accurate and objective exam questions that evaluate knowledge and not test-taking abilities (Level II)
12. List the considerations required to evaluate group work (Level I)
13. Apply the basic principles of assessment to group work settings (Level II)
14. Choose the appropriate grading method to evaluate group work (Level III)
15. Calculate an appropriate distribution of pool for students’ group work (Level II)
16. Produce a rubric with specific criteria, descriptors, and performance levels appropriate for your class (Level III)
17. Explain the benefits of a rubric for instructors and for students (Level I)

CE ACCREDITATION

This self-study is P.A.C.E. ® accredited. The instruction level for this activity is Intermediate. One and a half (1.5) P.A.C.E. ® contact hours and one and a half (1.5) Florida credit hours in the area General (Education) will be awarded to participants. ASCLS P.A.C.E.® is accepted by the ASCP/ASCLS/AGT Board of Certification and all states, including Florida and California, as an approved provider of continuing education for recertification and licensure. ASCLS is an approved provider with CE Broker for Florida licensees.

Contributor

Demetra Castillo, M.Ad.Ed., MLS(ASCP)^CM
Northern Illinois University
Visiting Assistant Professor
DeKalb, Illinois

LEVEL OF INSTRUCTION

This intermediate-level program is appropriate for laboratory professionals working in clinical, public health and academic settings.