Week 9 Focus
This module explores how instructional designers and educators use assessment and evaluation to measure learning outcomes, improve instructional strategies, and ensure alignment with learning objectives. It emphasizes both formative and summative approaches and introduces tools for analyzing learner performance and instructional effectiveness.
🧩 Key Concepts
1. Assessment vs. Evaluation
Assessment: The process of measuring learner performance to inform instruction.
Focuses on individual learning.
Examples: quizzes, reflections, skill demonstrations.
Evaluation: The process of judging the effectiveness of instructional materials, methods, or programs.
Focuses on the instructional design itself.
Examples: course feedback, instructional audits, learning analytics.
2. Types of Assessment
Type Description Purpose
Formative Ongoing checks during learning Guides instruction, supports growth
Summative Final evaluation after instruction Measures achievement of outcomes
Diagnostic Pre-assessment before instruction begins Identifies learner strengths and gaps
Authentic Real-world tasks that demonstrate mastery Assesses application of knowledge
3. Alignment with Learning Objectives
Assessments must align with Bloom’s Taxonomy levels (e.g., remembering, applying, analyzing).
Use backward design: start with desired outcomes, then plan assessments and instruction.
4. Rubrics and Scoring Tools
Rubrics: Provide clear criteria for performance levels.
Help ensure consistency and transparency.
Can be analytic (breaks down components) or holistic (overall judgment).
Checklists: Track completion of tasks or skills.
Rating Scales: Measure degree of performance or agreement.
5. Feedback Strategies
Effective feedback is:
Timely: Given soon after performance.
Specific: Focused on observable behaviors.
Actionable: Offers guidance for improvement.
Use feedback to promote self-regulation and metacognition.
6. Data-Driven Decision Making
Use assessment data to:
Identify trends and gaps.
Adjust instructional strategies.
Support learner progress and equity.
7. Technology in Assessment
Tools include:
LMS analytics (e.g., Moodle, Canvas)
Online quizzes and surveys
ePortfolios
Interactive simulations
Technology supports adaptive learning, real-time feedback, and scalable evaluation.
8. Ethical Considerations
Ensure fairness, confidentiality, and accessibility.
Avoid bias in assessment design and interpretation.
Respect learner privacy and data rights.