Digital assessment term |
Definition |
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A method of using comparisons as an alternative to traditional marking. Assessors are presented with two pieces of work side-by-side, and they choose which is better. An adaptive algorithm then helps achieve reliable professional consensus on the rank order of all pieces. |
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Adaptive testing |
The process of tailoring the difficulty of test questions to a candidate's ability. (Can also be referred to as computer-adaptive testing.) (1) |
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Authoring tool |
Software that allows you to create digital items and tests for an assessment. |
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Author |
The subject matter expert who typically writes the item or test for an assessment. |
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Auto-marking |
The automatic calculation of scores completed by an e-marking tool as soon as the exam session has finished. |
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Assessment for learning |
An approach to learning and assessment which sees learners become more active in the learning process and in thinking about their own performance. (See also: formative assessment.) (2) |
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Blended assessment |
A combination of both digital assessment and paper-based assessment methods. |
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Computer-based testing |
The delivery of tests using computers instead of via pen and paper. (3) |
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Content management system |
In the context of digital assessment, it refers to a software tool used to create, manage and modify content for assessments. |
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Delivery platform |
The suite of technology that enables an assessment to be deployed and completed digitally by the candidate. |
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The use of technology to carry out the end-to-end assessment processes. |
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The use of technology to mark or grade an assessment electronically. |
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An assessment that is delivered to a candidate on-screen. (4) |
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End-point assessment |
The final test used in the UK at the end of an apprenticeship to assess the range of knowledge and skills the apprentice has gained throughout their training. |
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Formative assessment |
A way of assessing learners during the ongoing learning process that allows teachers to adjust their teaching to meet student needs and actively involve learners in the process. (See also: assessment for learning). (5) |
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High stakes assessment |
An assessment that is used to inform important decisions or outcomes. (6) |
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Invigilator |
An individual who is employed to observe candidates sitting an exam to protect against exam malpractice. (Also referred to as a proctor). (7) |
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Item bank |
A repository for test questions and other test elements which allows them to be repurposed. |
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Live pilot |
A pilot of an element of a qualification that leads to an award. Used to prove the robustness of a digital assessment delivery system and other associated processes. (8) |
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Low stakes assessment |
A method of assessment that does not impact learners' final grades or any other educational outcomes. (9) |
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Moderation |
An external process (removed from the marking of assessments) that makes sure that standards have been applied correctly and that marks are fair and accurate. (10) |
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Offline assessment |
A way of running computer-based tests without the need for an internet connection. |
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On-demand assessment |
An assessment that can be taken at a time and date of the learners' choosing within their study programme/course. |
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On-screen assessment |
An assessment that is completed by the candidate on a computer screen. |
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Peer assessment |
A learning process that allows learners to critique and feedback on each other's work using benchmarks typically set by the teacher. |
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Proctor |
An individual who is employed to observe candidates sitting an exam to protect against exam malpractice. (Also referred to as an invigilator.) |
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Question type |
A way of categorising the sort of question being asked in an assessment. Examples include drag and drop, multiple choice and sequence response. |
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The supervision of a candidate through visual and audio connections over the web while they complete their assessment. (Also referred to as remote invigilation.) |
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Rich media |
Functional and interactive content such as video and audio. |
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Summative assessment |
A method of assessment used to evaluate learning, skills and knowledge at the conclusion of an instructional unit that compares it to a set standard or benchmark. |
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Validity |
The level to which an assessment has measured what it was intended to measure. |
(1) https://www.e-assessment.com/news/adaptive-testing/
(2) Getting started with Assessment for Learning (cambridge-community.org.uk)
(3) What is a computer-based test? Here's everything you need to know (mettl.com)
(4) e-Testing | CCEA
(5) 962005021.indd (oecd.org)
(6) High-Stakes Test Definition (edglossary.org)
(7) INVIGILATOR | meaning, definition in Cambridge English Dictionary
(8) The basic and key skills (BKS) e-assessment experience report (publishing.service.gov.uk)
(9) Low-stakes testing | Center for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (oswego.edu)
(10) Moderation guidance | The University of Edinburgh