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On the Development of a Computer-Based Tool for Formative Student Assessment: Epistemological, Methodological, and
Martin J Tomasik1,2, Stéphanie Berger1,3, Urs Moser1
1Institute for Educational Evaluation, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
Computer-based formative assessment systems offer valuable insights for student learning and self-regulation. These systems provide efficient feedback, enhancing educational practices and addressing practical implementation challenges.
Area of Science:
- Educational Technology
- Learning Sciences
- Assessment
Background:
- Formative assessment enhances student learning outcomes and self-regulation by making learning visible and guiding goal pursuit.
- Computer-based formative assessment systems (CB-FAS) are emerging tools expected to provide timely, valuable feedback to students and teachers.
- This paper explores the theoretical and practical dimensions of implementing CB-FAS in educational settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the epistemological foundations of formative assessment, focusing on data collection, model building, and interpretation.
- To address methodological challenges in delivering effective feedback within classroom instruction using CB-FAS.
- To outline practical requirements and challenges associated with deploying CB-FAS for large student populations.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical analysis of the epistemological aspects of formative assessment, including validity in data collection.
- Methodological comparison of CB-FAS with traditional feedback methods, arguing for the superiority of computer-based approaches.
- Case study of an existing CB-FAS to discuss practical implementation issues.
Main Results:
- The interpretive argument of formative assessment is explicated, highlighting challenges in achieving high data validity.
- Computer-based formative assessment systems are presented as more effective than traditional methods for supporting feedback and inferences.
- Practical challenges include assessment content, item bank management, user assessment literacy, and data protection.
Conclusions:
- CB-FAS hold significant potential for improving education by providing efficient and informative feedback.
- Addressing epistemological, methodological, and practical challenges is crucial for successful implementation.
- Future research should focus on advancing CB-FAS capabilities and broader adoption in educational contexts.
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