Hudak, Tina; Zazula, Dulcie; Egeland, Teresa, (2008, June/July). Are Digital Portfolios a Realistic Alternative to Standardized Testing? Learning & Leading with Technology, Vol. 35. Retrieved April 6, 2009, from http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/LLIssues/Volume_35_2007_2008/JuneJuly/
This is an interesting question, and with the article comes two differing view points. Proponents of digital portfolios would call them authentic representations of learning that contain a collection of artifacts. They agree that for students, the digital portfolio clearly (and visually) demonstrates the steps taken to reach a particular goal. Students take pride in their accomplishments by showcasing them in a digital portfolio. There are those, on the other hand, who feel digital portfolios do not provide proper assessment. They feel that a well-designed test that is easy to administer and score provides a much better testing tool.
Regardless of the pros and cons, digital portfolios and standardized tests can both be utilized for students to demonstrate successful learning. Creativity with constants makes a good mix.
1. What are the advantages of digital portfolios?
Because digital portfolios are a continually growing compilation of information, they give immediate and useful data to guide planning for the coming year. Digital portfolios give educators a relevant "snapshot" of where students are in their learning, thereby enabling them to tailor the lesson according to students needs and abilities.
2. What are the advantages of standardized tests?
Standardized testing is fairly easy to administer and provides a view of how well a student is meeting standards and objectives at a certain point in time. By conducting standardized tests, we can determine more clearly where gaps in learning occur. Constructive steps (i.e. adjusting lesson plans) can then be taken to fill these gaps.
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