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How do online assessments impact the way we think about teaching and learning?

Lamont Nelthropp

Online assessments have had a major impact on the way we think about teaching and learning! With the rise of technology, many educators have turned to digital assessments to measure their students' progress and provide feedback. These types of assessments offer a variety of benefits, but they also come with some challenges that we must address.

First, let's talk about the positives. Online assessments are a great way to promote digital literacy, as students must be able to navigate digital tools in order to complete them. Additionally, they can save teachers a lot of time grading, as the computer does most of the work for them. This leaves more time for teachers to focus on lesson planning, student engagement, and other important tasks.

Online assessments can also be more convenient for students. They can take the assessments at their own pace, and from anywhere with an internet connection. This means that students who may have trouble making it to class due to transportation issues or other factors can still participate in class and be assessed on their progress.

There are also some potential downsides to online assessments. For one, they can put too much emphasis on standardized testing and rote memorization, as there are limited ways to measure things like critical thinking or creativity with multiple choice questions. Additionally, some students may struggle with technology and find it difficult to complete assessments online.

One way to mitigate these challenges is to incorporate a variety of assessment methods, so that students are not solely reliant on online tests. For example, teachers can also use projects, essays, or group discussions to evaluate students' progress and understanding. Additionally, it's important to make sure that digital tools are accessible and user-friendly for all students, regardless of their familiarity with technology.

In summary, online assessments have had a significant impact on teaching and learning. They offer many benefits, such as saving time and promoting digital literacy. However, they also come with some challenges, such as an overemphasis on standardized testing and potential technological barriers. By incorporating a variety of assessment methods and ensuring that digital tools are accessible and user-friendly, we can help to ensure that online assessments are a positive force in education.