Are tests the only objective assessments that can be used?

There are many types of assessments that can be used in the classroom. A test is one type of assessment that is used frequently probably because it is objective and is effective in seeing results of student learning. This is not the only type of assessment that can be used in the classroom.

At the preschool level there is no paper-and-pencil testing, so to speak. Preschoolers do not read so assessments come in the form of observations, portfolios, and standardized tests and screenings-where the teacher/screener works one-on-one with each child. One down side to screenings, like the DECA, which is a social/emotional scale for preschoolers, is some of the statements can be subjective. This makes it very difficult when it comes to scoring each individual. A DECA trainer said it is important to score each child with the same understanding of each statement. However you read/understand each statement is how you should score each child. Portfolios and observations are best in that they show what children are doing. I do feel that observations using anecdotal notes can be subjective. This depends on how the observer views and records what is going on. It is very important to record actual actions seen and not interpret what is seen.  Portfolios are assessments that show progress over a period of time. In a portfolio can be actual work samples, pictures of work or creations that could not be saved, pre and post assessments, and video clips. These are actual examples of the children’s work but I think that a teachers understanding of child development can have a profound effect on interpreting results of the portfolio. I feel a teacher with a good understanding of child development will assess the work understanding developmental stages children go through and the results will reflect this understanding.

There are many assessments that can be used in class and it is important to be as objective as possible. Tests are effective objective assessments but not the only form of assessment that can be used. It is important to use a variety of assessments and to be as objective as possible to get the best results in determining student understanding.