9:15 – 9:45 am | MSC 2E28 Shawkey Dining Room
Rethinking Assessment: How Collaborative Learning and Dynamic Assessment Increase Mastery and Reduce Anxiety in Challenging Classes
Wendi Benson
Assistant Professor
Psychology Department, Marshall University
Abstract:
This presentation focuses on rethinking assessment as a path to mastery, not proof of it. You will be introduced to the purpose, procedure, and outcomes of collaborative testing and dynamic assessment based on past research. Collaborative testing allows students to work together on an exam, discussing answer options and coming to consensus on the best response. Research suggests collaborative testing leads to increased learning, decreased test anxiety, a more positive evaluation of classes, and better communication skills. Dynamic Assessment allows students to ask the Professor questions during exams for a small point deduction. This makes the exam a learning experience and helps students develop skills rapidly by providing timely feedback, asking them to elaborate on their thinking, and elevating their understanding of concepts. Research suggests dynamic assessment improves students’ performance, enhances self-efficacy to learn, increases the perceived value of the class, and increases the perceived importance of the Professor.
Session type: Teaching Clinic, Hybrid (virtual live stream and face-to-face)
Key words: assessment, collaboration, mastery