I think that classroom based tests will show more than a standardized test, however I do not think that tests are the best way to show a student's ability. What most tests do is show that student's know that vocabulary and are able to produce it in a format demanded by the test. Also, generally, most testing does not include a oral portion to the exam. I personally would be more interested to see what students can do in a project rather than a test.
As a test taker, I am normally fairly good. I generally do no do well on the essay section unless it is for English, but I find that often when I take a test everything I have studied will be leached from my mind. It is of course after the test that I can remember anything. This obviously stems from nervousness, and I always hate it because I know I could have done better. As a side note, I watched a NOVA episode explaining that one way to combat that nervousness that can interfere with testing is to write own your feelings about the test in a journal entry about 10-15 minutes before the test. The studied showed that the average for the control group ( those who sat there and did nothing for 10-15 min) got an average of a B-. Those who did write down their anxieties over the test, got on average a B+.
(If you're interested in the video, it's on this NOVA page, it should be the last 10 minutes of the episode.
I think that there are plenty of people who simply don't test well, and changing the environment of the test won't help much. However, for testing it is impotent to put a variety of test questions such as open ended, multiple choice and the ilk.
The idea of assessing students knowledge and abilities through a project is a good solution for students who get anxious or nervous before a test. Unlike a test, students aren't timed. Although there is a deadline, students can work on the project at home and can take breaks to relax if they get frustrated or brain dead. When I take tests I often get so worked up that I feel like I just can't think any more.
ReplyDeleteI actually tend to do worse on projects than on tests. Especially group projects! I find that working with a group or people that don't mesh together, or for too long on a project can make it seem more drawn-out and time-consuming than studying for one test might be. Do you prefer solo projects, or in groups? if groups, ones that the teachers assigns, or more of a pick-your-own style?
ReplyDeleteI find it interesting that writing in a journal right before the test can be helpful in alleviating anxiety about the test. I know that when I am about to take a test, I just cram right beforehand, one so that the information is fresh in my brain, and two because it's better than sitting around and waiting for the tests to be handed it. I notice that in most of my classes, every student will get fidgety and antsy waiting for the test. I think that tests not only "test" your ability in the language, but also how well you work under stress and pressure.
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