Assessments

How to Assess Students Online

In a traditional face –to-face environment, students are assessed with what are called traditional assessments. These include tests and research papers. Alternative assessments, like portfolios or performances, are less common but can often be deployed in subjects like Art, Music or in spaces like Science Labs. Group projects and presentations can also be considered alternatives assessments. While traditional assessments like tests are often the preferred method, conferring a kind of legitimacy in certain domains that alternative assessments may not, exams can present challenges in online environments. A principal faculty concern with regard to online assessments is how the integrity of the exam can be maintained. The video How to Assess Students Online reviews the various ways online exams can be proctored and the advantages and disadvantages of exam controls.

Creating Tests in Blackboard

Adjusting Test Conditions in Blackboard

Blackboard provides a number of options to choose from when determining test conditions. These include limiting the time students have to complete an exam and how the exam will be displayed for students.

Test conditions have a great impact on how students are able to perform on an exam. Restrictive test conditions can result in poor performance due to issues with Internet connectivity or time zones, for example. It is also vital to take student testing modifications into account when determining test conditions.