Assessment - Interactive InventoryTeacher Centered versus Student Centered Learning
I was able to identify the characteristics of learner based assessments. I agree with how the assessments are different. Teacher centered versus learner centered assessments in the classroom represent a paradigm shift in the United States. I believe the education system, educators, and students are currently in the process of adapting to this shift.
Sometimes teachers get very excited when they are introduced to learner centered teaching methods and start implementing the techniques in their class. Students in traditional classrooms may object strenuously and say they only want to be taught through lecture what will be on the test. The teacher ends up with a poor evaluation from the students. Poor evaluations make the teacher less likely to introduce these new learner centered teaching methods in future classes. Other teachers argue that they don't have time to provide learner centered techniques and also teach to the standardized tests that are a measure of success in learning.
While I favor learner based assessments, I realize that adult learners have not had much experience with this type of learning and need a gradual introduction into the process. I believe there will also need to be some changes in the United States education system to support alternative assessment and student centered learning.
Carolyn Jenkins
Carolyn -
ReplyDeleteI know exactly what you mean about the expectations of students for a "sit and get" experience, and the need to move them toward more active learning somewhat gradually. It can be way outside their comfort zone if they suddenly have to be an active participant and they were hoping to nap in class and just take multiple choice tests based on readings in a textbook. I find it helps to have expectations as clear as possible, as often they are uneasy about how they will be evaluated, and to be sure to explain how the class work relates to what they will need to do in real life. Think of how you are giving them a new view of learning!