Module 4: ICT for assessment

Introduction

Welcome to the ICT for assessment module. In the dynamic landscape of education, the assessment of student learning is an essential component of ensuring quality education and fostering academic progress. This module is designed to provide educators with comprehensive insights and practical skills to navigate various facets of assessment within the South African ICT in Education Policy framework.

Overview

This module delves into key imperatives outlined in the South African ICT in Education Policy, emphasizing their impact on the assessment landscape. We will explore the Assessment Policy in the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements (CAPS), focusing on the assessment cycle’s significance and intricacies. Furthermore, we will delve into leveraging online diagnostic tools, recognising different forms of assessment, and the evaluation of higher-order thinking skills.

We will also discuss the utility of assessment tools, particularly rubrics, as invaluable aids in enhancing the quality and fairness of assessment practices. Finally, we will examine the role of examinations in the assessment process and explore the concept of error analysis as a means of improving teaching and learning outcomes.

Specific objectives

At the end of this module you will be able to:

• Understanding the imperatives outlined in the South African ICT in Education Policy and their implications for classroom assessment practices.
• Navigate the Assessment Policy within the context of CAPS and the assessment cycle, ensuring alignment with educational objectives.
• Utilise online diagnostic tools to gather meaningful data about students’ strengths and weaknesses, facilitating tailored instruction.
• Recognise the various forms of assessment, including formative and summative assessments, and the ability to select appropriate methods for specific learning objectives.
• Design assessments that evaluate higher-order thinking skills, fostering critical and creative thinking among students.
• Create and employ rubrics as effective tools for transparent and fair assessment, supporting both educators and learners.
• Understand the role of examinations in the broader assessment framework, with a focus on maintaining validity and reliability.
• Conduct error analysis to identify common misconceptions and learning gaps, subsequently informing instructional improvements.