Are tests the only way to objectively assesses student learning?

It is very difficult to assesses student learning objectively. Even through the use of tests, students are not assessed objectively. Test questions are often bias. As teachers we are taught that each student is different and learns at a different rate and in a different way. With a test something as simple as the way a question in phrased can make it a biased question.

It is through the use of non objective assessments that teachers can truely make sure they are reaching students of all levels and learning styles. One student may be able to show you how to complete an activity but will not be able to write down all the steps. One student may be able to tell you all the steps of the process, but may not be able to show you how it should be completed in a real life experience.

As teachers we often forget the problems we ourselves faced in school. We become so worried about the requirements placed on us that we forget the students. Assessment itself comes from a latin word meaning to sit with. The assessment process is something we "sit with" students to help them achieve, it is not something we do "to" students.

Technology Infused Classroom

When you enter a technology infused classroom you should be able to see the effects within 5 to 10 minutes. Of course if every classroom had a smartboard the time would be less. A visitor should see the teacher using technology effectively throughout the class period. There are so many ways to incorporate technology having an infused classroom should be fairly simple.

In my classroom I use my projector all the time. I show videos for grammar, use the clickers to check students understanding of a grammar lesson, and use simple powerpoints to introduce new items or give instructions. I would like my students to have easier access to computers. Even the use of the 25 computers on a laptop cart is difficult as only about half of them work at any given time. Last week this proved to be a difficult experience the first time I brought them into the classroom. I ended up having to rethink my lesson and structure the classroom around the technology. I had to have half the class using the computers while the other half of the class worked in collaborative groups to complete an assignment. This was exhausting! Now I am concerned about future computer use in my classroom. Though I use my technology daily I feel that I could infuse technology more efficiently.

Visual Literacy and the Internet

Visual literacy should be an important part of any classroom. Teachers have a better chance of reaching more students when visuals are used to enhance the instruction. I am a firm believer that a teacher should try to reach students across the learning styles of the classroom.
The use of the internet easily allows students to "see" what is being discussed in the classroom. Teachers can use videos to teach a lesson in a different way. The internet can also be used to show students other countries, how to complete an experiment, or see a visual interpretation of literature.
In my classroom, I really like to use my clickers with a powerpoint. I like my students to be able to read the question for themselves before they make a decision. I consistantly encourage my students to use mind maps, venn diagrams, and other graphic organizers when completing the prewriting step for a writing assignment.
I use the internet in my classroom at least once a week to teach grammar. I like to show the Tim and Moby videos from brainpop.com. Though I teach high school, my students are still interested in this cartoon video about grammar.

Varying Instructional Strategies and Using Technology

Students in a general classroom learn by using a variety of methods. According to the Learning Retention Triangle we learn the most by teaching others and practice by doing. Students learn very little, only about 5% through lecture. Therefore, in order to reach all of our students we must use a variety of methods in order to reach each of them.
We as teachers must also think about the ability of our students to focus. The average attention span of a child in their age plus 1 minute. We must constantly be changing what we are doing in the classroom in order to be the most effective teacher possible.
If we want each of our students to be successful we must constantly be on the lookout for new ideas. If one thing is not working, we have to be willing to modify our instruction. Luckly, we have the technology of the 21st century behind us. Along with the traditional methods that have been used for years technology can help us teach and keep the interest of our students.
In my classroom I am lucky to have a lot of technology available. First, I have an active slate. This is a small version of a smart board that allows me to control the computer from across the room. I can write notes on the screen as I need to. I can also allow my students to use the slate to correct grammar right from their desk.
I also have a CPS or clicker system for my classroom. This allows me to easily assess students in a flash. It also saves me time because I don't have to grade the assessment later. Students really like the active participation that this method requires.
I also have a document camera which allows me to show students anything on my projector screen.
I also love the many websites that I am able to access to show my students pictures that correlate with material and show them videos about grammar and writing.
Due to the vast functionality of the technology I have I am able to change direction at the drop of a hat. I am able to hold the students attention and help them learn in a variety of ways.