e-Learning Ecologies MOOC’s Updates

Continuous Assessment

Continuous assessment stands for a mode of evaluation in which a student is being graded and given feedback manifoldly throughout a course. As a result, the final mark is grounded in a longitudinal analysis rather than a one-time final assessment or two-time one (mid-term and final). ( https://www.teachingenglish.org.uk/article/continuous-assessment)

There are two modes in which the process can transpire: single-examinator and multi-person feedback. (This was covered in the lectures)

This discourse of examination offers substantial benefits; however, one should be aware of its potential risks.

I will start the dissection with the advantages. Firstly, it provides feedback -  "a power diagnostic tool" (I loved the phrasing) - on a regular basis, which helps student see their areas of success and areas that need improving. Constant reactions to their works gives way to reflection and improvement in a more in-depth and faster fashion. Secondly, such manner of evaluation allows both teachers and students see how the material is being "digested" and "absorbed" by their students or peers, and modify the classes accordingly. ( "Measuring Pupil Achievement", http://www.equip123.net/EQ_Review/1_1.pdf)

Lastly, it helps break down the course in smaller portions of information, which makes it more manageable for both students and teachers alike. ( "Types of Continuous Assessment", http://www.cdtl.nus.edu.sg/Handbook/Assess/types-cont.htm) 

However, one should be mindful of its probable negative effects as well. The obvious one - plagiarism - was already mentioned in the lectures, as well as ways of controlling the phenomenon. Secondly, if it is only the teacher who provides regular feedback, it can be overwhelming. Consider the workload and find ways to manage the assessment with the help of computer programs. Lastly, I want to point out that in both online and face-to-face classroom, student might fall prey to the concept of "you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours" when it comes to assessing works of their peers. One of many possible ways of containing this could be anonymous feedback ,which, ideally, allows students speak their mind. 

  • Barbara Ann Brown