With the proliferation of technological advancements, the focus is that many educators have shifted away from traditional methods. While there is no doubt that technology has made learning easier and more accessible, it also means that assessments can become unpredictable. The real question then becomes – is it worth the risk?
In today’s article, we will explore this question by discussing the impact of technology on education assessment and by examining both sides of the argument.
What is an Education Assessment?
In assessing education, the most common method is to test every student on a variety of content areas. This method has been used for decades and has been deemed reliable by many within the education system. While this approach allows educators to assess their students, it can create several difficulties.
Next, we will discuss some pointers on how Education Assessment affects the education system.
1. Increase flexibility: One of the biggest advantages of technology is that it makes learning more accessible. With online lessons, teachers and students can interact from anywhere in the world. At home, children can take as many lessons as they require and at their own pace. This means that teachers can accommodate individual needs and students who are struggling can get extra attention and review difficult lessons.
2. Recognize and cater to differences: The use of technology can improve educational assessment. This is especially true when it comes to data-based assessment. For example, with biometric systems such as the Australian Identity and Visa System, which can identify individuals on entry to the country, it becomes easier for teachers and staff to identify support needs.
3. Increase the benefits: Evidence suggests that using technology in the classroom can increase student engagement and learning outcomes. Technology has also been shown to improve student achievement in areas such as reading, writing, language development, and mathematics.
4. Understand the importance of emotion: Technology can provide useful insights into student motivation, behavior, and emotions. This information can be used to identify at-risk students, tackle behavioral problems and improve class dynamics.
5. Reduce the impact of bias: Teachers are human and can therefore be subject to bias. One of the biggest problems with traditional methods is that they are subjective, making it difficult to create a consistent learning environment for all students. Technology is impartial which means that the assessment process can be more objective and fair.
6. Consolidate learning: Technology can link the learning process and improve efficiency. Through the use of assessments, students can review their progress and identify areas where they are struggling. This makes it easier for teachers to provide reassurance and clear instruction.
7. Maximize content: Technology is a great tool for encouraging students to think critically and creatively by providing them with a variety of assessment activities and tasks. This can help them develop new perspectives, explore real-life scenarios, work on personal goals as well as adhere to strict deadlines.
8. Ensure learning is relevant: Education Assessment is all about applying knowledge, skills, and understanding to real-life situations. Technology can provide a platform whereby students can access practical applications of the knowledge they are being taught.
9. Boost engagement: Using technology to enhance assessment can have a positive impact on student engagement and motivation. While there is always pressure to perform, students should be given more choices over how they wish to assess their learning. Technologies such as gamification are a great way for teachers to foster motivation in their students, even in the most basic lessons.
Conclusion:
As we can see, technology has a lot to offer when it comes to teaching and learning. It also can revolutionize education by offering more choice and flexibility for students and teachers.
However, it is important not to lose sight of what is truly important – learning. Technology does not automatically improve student achievement and engagement; it simply provides how teachers can assess how well their charges are doing. Using technology should be viewed as an opportunity to enhance assessment practices rather than replace them altogether.