Create objective tests to assess the cognitive domain. Use three types of objective test questions: multiple-choice, which assesses the learner's knowledge, comprehension, application and analysis skills; true/false questions, which test knowledge and comprehension; and matching, which also evaluates knowledge. Write self-assessment progress-check questions and short quizzes as formative assessment tools for online courses. Write the questions based on the objectives in the lesson. Provide the learner with feedback and review screens when the learner's answer a question incorrectly. Give quizzes and play games to assess learning in the classroom. Review the results with the students.
Conduct pretests to assess the learner's knowledge of the content prior to taking the lesson. Pretests determine how prepared a learner is to study a lesson and what a learner has already mastered. Conduct post-tests after a lesson is complete. Post-tests assess what the learner has learned from the lesson. Write your pretests and posttests as objective-based, performance-based tests where the learner is observed performing a function, questionnaires and surveys.
Assign discussion topics for online learners to discuss in a distance learning course. Discussion topics assess the learner's knowledge of the content and his or her research during the discussions. Assign learners several resources to read, and then have them post their comments to a discussion board where all the students and you discuss the comments.
Write surveys and questionnaires to assess your students' attitudes and behaviors. These should include open-ended questions as well as closed-ended questions with fixed responses and rating scales.
Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a problem to solve. Observe the group dynamics and the results provided by the children. In distance learning, divide your learners into small groups and assign them to work together on course projects.
Create exit cards with two questions to assess the students' understanding of lessons they learned throughout the day. Pass out index cards to your students prior to the end of class. Write one factual question about something that was taught during day and write another question about a concept learned that day. Your students should turn the exit card in before they leave the classroom.
Provide students with an open-ended question, and then give them a few minutes to answer the question. These papers promote classroom discussions and identify any misconceptions.