Learner Assessment in Blended and Online Settings

Background

The evolution of distance learning to include K-12 students has included an expansion of the vocabulary used to describe these learning environments. Virtual schools, cyber schools, and online schools are all terms found in the literature associated with access to educational services offered via computer-mediated, web-based alternatives. These terms are typically used to identify learning environments that are fully delivered through synchronous and/or asynchronous web-based systems. Many contemporary, K-12 distance learning environments are described as blended. Staker and Horn (2014) make their case for using blended learning environments as the foundation strategy to improve schools. Whether schools and teachers are looking to flip the classroom, offer flexible course options, supplement study with extended offerings online from other schools, or enhance traditional classroom instruction, blended learning is found in both rural and urban school settings. Murphy, Snow, Mislevy, Gallagher, Krumm, and Wei (2014) describe blended learning as an emerging field with many different conceptualizations. For the purposes of this chapter, the authors will use the Staker and Horn (2012) component definition of blended learning.

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  Blended Learning:

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    Teaching and learning occur within a formal education program.

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    Students learn at least in part through online delivery of content and instruction.

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    Students learn at least in part through instruction that is delivered away from their home in a face-to-face setting with a teacher present.

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    Students have some level of control over time, place, path, and/or pace of the instruction.

Learner Assessment

The assessment of student learning in traditional settings has challenged even the most experienced, master teachers. Ambrose, Bridges, DiPietro, Lovett, and Norman (2010) provide a reminder that when the objectives, assessments, and instructional strategies of a course are aligned, students build positive expectancies for their learning and their success. Figure 1 is a cartoon graphic and quote that has been widely shared in social media to illustrate the importance of valid learner assessments that are aligned with instructional goals and targeted learner outcomes.

Figure 1.

Challenges of measuring student learning

Source: PBS (https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BZ_qJp4IEAEDYip.jpg:large)