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Showing posts from May, 2013

Should we do away with Summative assessments?

Should we do away with summative assessments? A few months ago, I remember my twitter community engaged in a discussion about the need for summative tasks. Why was it so important to have one if the formative assessments were thorough? Why check again when we have been checking all along and have data to prove that students have met the learning objectives? Formative tasks assess little bits and pieces. A skill, knowledge on a certain topic, the learner profile, an attitude. A summative task on the other hand, is all about the big picture. Are students able to synthesize their learning? Are they able to unconsciously use the skills and attitudes  as  they demonstrate content knowledge? The summative task should provide an authentic scenario; a simulation of real life.  Sitting at a desk and regurgitating data denies students the experience of being able to "create" something with their newfound knowledge and skills. It undermines their intelligence. And guess