Teaching Python

Three Tips for Designing True Authentic Assessments

January 9th, 2021
By Kelly Paredes
authentic, authentic assessments, curriculum, grant wiggins, learning, tests

In Computer Science class, designing quality learning experiences meaningful to our students is the ultimate goal. Developing ways to accurately evaluate students' learning using real-world situations that are applicable yet challenging is the underlying focus.

This blog series will take a deep dive into authentic assessment components and what entails quality assessments. Authentic Assessments in education are a complex topic full of multifaceted features.

Setting High Expectations For Authentic Assessments in Computer Science

January 2nd, 2021
By Kelly Paredes
assessment, authentic assessments, authenticity, edutopia, expectations, feedback, grant wiggins, growth mindset, heutagogy, high expectations, learning theories, smart, wiggins

Real-world coding tasks require a specific technique for completion. When solving coding challenges, a high level of coding knowledge and syntax is used. Programming takes commitment to improvement and time spent on iteration. When designing Authentic assessments in Computer Science, try to replicate the patterns in the real world. Setting high expectations for students is a great way to prepare them for authentic assessments. There is a difference in the quality of work when the expectations are NOT to "just get it done" versus doing what you can to learn and understand. Developing a growth mindset early on can help. Empower students and be prepared to provide them with the skills and critical feedback they need to succeed.