Alternative assessment is a method of assessment that measures a student's knowledge level rather than the student's knowledge level.

Unlike traditional assessment methods that only assess a student's knowledge, alternative assessment encourages the student to use their thinking hat and creatively apply information to solve a problem. Concept maps, portfolios, and open-ended tests are well-known examples of alternative assessments. The overall purpose of alternative assessment is to give students the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and complete assignments.

Alternative assessment is also called performance testing or authentic assessment because it is deeply rooted in the ability to do something using new information. As part of the assessment, the student must complete meaningful tasks that reflect a clear understanding of the objectives of teaching and learning.

Example: You can ask your students to create a portfolio, work with others on specific projects, or participate in any other activity that shows they understand what was discussed in the course or training. Like in my subject Engineering Mathematics I and Engineering mathematics II, I encourage students to make a portfolio where they research on the latest applications of various mathematical topics in the different fields, This gives them a great opportunity to learn and explore the subject in a much creative and interesting manner.

Characteristics:

• Alternative assessment like Portfolio creation is tailored to the specific needs and abilities of individual students as per their interests and choice.
• It is an instructor-led assessment process. This means I as a faculty help and develop a unique method to measure the student’s ability.
• During the portfolio making the alternative assessment methods are flexible and continuously adaptable as per the need of the student.
• Portfolio never the less is seamlessly aligned with the learning goals and objectives of the course, like engineering and its applications.