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The efficacy of authentic assessment versus pencil and paper testing in evaluating student achievement in a basic technology course

Posted on:2008-06-20Degree:Ed.DType:Dissertation
University:Walden UniversityCandidate:Johnson, Yvonne LFull Text:PDF
GTID:1447390005979514Subject:Education
Abstract/Summary:
This quantitative study investigated traditional, multiple-choice assessment and formative computerized, authentic assessments in evaluating student achievement. The purposes of the study were to determine whether the evaluation of student achievement is adequately measured in traditional and authentic assessments, and if authentic assessment can be a formative evaluation tool. In constructivist philosophy, learning is optimized when the learners are physically and mentally engaged in relevant learning in technology rich, participatory environments that allow students to base understanding on their own concrete experiences. The primary research question investigated if differences existed in the evaluation of student achievement using objective and formative computerized assessment. Employing a quasi-experimental design, 100 students participated in pretests and posttests. The treatment group used formative computerized assessment; the control group used traditional multiple choice. The researcher used independent-measures t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) to analyzed data. The treatment group scored significantly higher on the posttest. Recommendations include replicating the study using urban or rural student populations. An enriched, authentic learning experience benefits each student increasing the level of student achievement. Assessment should be embedded in the curriculum indistinguishable from instructional content. This assessment provides immediate feedback enabling teachers to plan interventions, and reduces grading.
Keywords/Search Tags:Assessment, Student achievement, Authentic, Formative computerized
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