How do you streamline K-12 assessment with technology?

2 Incorporate digital portfolios

Another way to streamline assessment with technology is to incorporate digital portfolios, which are collections of student work that showcase their growth, achievements, and reflections. Digital portfolios can be created using tools like Seesaw, Google Sites, or Padlet, that allow students to upload various types of evidence, such as photos, videos, audio recordings, or documents. Digital portfolios can streamline assessment by making it more authentic, comprehensive, and student-centered. They can also help students develop self-assessment and metacognitive skills, as they can review their progress and set goals for improvement.

3 Implement adaptive testing

A third way to streamline assessment with technology is to implement adaptive testing, which is a form of computer-based testing that adjusts the difficulty and content of the questions based on the student's responses. Adaptive testing can be used for formative or summative purposes, and can be accessed through platforms like i-Ready, NWEA MAP, or STAR. Adaptive testing can streamline assessment by making it more personalized, accurate, and fair. It can also provide immediate and detailed feedback and data, and help teachers identify students' strengths and needs.

4 Leverage artificial intelligence

A fourth way to streamline assessment with technology is to leverage artificial intelligence (AI), which is the ability of machines to perform tasks that require human intelligence, such as reasoning, learning, or problem-solving. AI can be used to enhance assessment in various ways, such as generating questions, scoring responses, providing feedback, or detecting plagiarism. AI can streamline assessment by making it more scalable, reliable, and consistent. It can also help teachers reduce their workload and focus on more meaningful aspects of teaching and learning.

5 Integrate project-based learning

A fifth way to streamline assessment with technology is to integrate project-based learning (PBL), which is an instructional approach that engages students in solving real-world problems or challenges through inquiry, collaboration, and creativity. PBL can be supported by technology tools that help students research, communicate, create, and present their projects, such as Google Drive, Flipgrid, Canva, or Prezi. PBL can streamline assessment by making it more relevant, holistic, and multidimensional. It can also help students develop 21st century skills, such as critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity.

6 Involve students in assessment design

A sixth way to streamline assessment with technology is to involve students in assessment design, which means giving them a voice and a choice in how they are assessed and what they learn. Students can be involved in assessment design by using technology tools that allow them to co-create rubrics, criteria, or questions, such as Google Docs, Forms, or Slides, or to choose from different options or formats, such as videos, podcasts, or blogs. Involving students in assessment design can streamline assessment by making it more meaningful, motivating, and empowering. It can also help students take ownership of their learning and develop self-regulation and agency.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?