E-Portfolios and Computer-based Assessments

Assessments are a necessary part of teaching.  They are useful in determining the extent of material that a student has acquired.  Assessments are also useful in determining the material that needs to be covered in order for a student or class to master specific content.  Such feedback can improve the learner performance by allowing for flexibility from one student to another, opportunity for review and suggestions from peers and teachers, and are easily adapted to fit the needs of individuals or groups of students (Jonassen, 2008). 

An e-portfolio is a way for students to submit digital pieces of work that documents the content in which the student was asked to address (Jonassen, 2008).  These are created by the students with their own personal flair on multimedia programs.  E-portfolios can allow the teacher to determine if the student can produce a specific product, follow certain instructions, or provide a means to determine the growth in a specific area of content (Jonassen, 2008).   Computer-based tests are test with multiple choice answers that are given on a computer, which allows for faster grading and can assess specific areas (Jonassen, 2008).  These computer-based tests can impact validity and reliability.

I found Chapter 10 very informative.  It provided the answer to why we must create an e-portfolio and why it is such a good idea that our students be allowed this opportunity, as well.  What a way to assess their knowledge and gain insight into what they have learned and what they can really do with that new knowledge.  I believe that many students would “knock our socks off” with the product they may deliver if given this type of assessment. 

Reference:
Jonassen, D., Howland, J., Marra, R., & Crismond, D.  (2008). Meaningful Learning with Technology (3^rd ed.).  Upper Saddle River, New Jersey:  Pearson Education, Inc.