Alternative assessments are evaluation methods that differ from traditional evaluation techniques. Traditional evaluation methods include standardized tests with true/false questions, matching, fill-in-the-blank and essay questions. This cookie-cutter approach to evaluation is often replaced or supplemented with alternative assessments such as making a video or creating a presentation. Often the individual works with others to complete an alternative assessment, and he has some say in what the task will be and how it will be accomplished.
Authentic assessments are made in a "real-life" setting using situations that mirror situations the individual will actually encounter. Generally the instruction before the assessment is also in a real-life setting. Instead of evaluating the individual's understanding of a particular skill, the evaluation is made while the individual is applying the skill to an authentic situation. For example, instead of asking what a symbol means on a map, an authentic assessment will ask the individual to use a symbol to find something on a map in order to apply the information to a task.
Supervisors and teachers may require individuals to perform a self-assessment as part of a comprehensive evaluation strategy. The employee or student can use this self-assessment as an opportunity to take responsibility for his own performance and gain a measure of control over the evaluation process. A self-assessment gives workers and students the opportunity to highlight specific skills and accomplishments. Completing a self-assessment sets the stage for constructive discussions to set goals for the future. It can also provide the individual with a more in-depth understanding of performance standards and add accuracy and fairness to the evaluation.
In a performance assessment, individuals are observed while making, doing or creating something. On the job this may translate into the supervisor observing the employee as she performs her duties. In the classroom, the teacher may assign a performance task where students are asked to do something; a product task, where students are asked to create something such as an art project; or a portfolio task, where students are asked to accumulate essays and other items that provide an example of their actual work.