UNIT 01: CONTEMPORARY ISSUES IN EDUCATION: THEORY, POLICY AND PRACTICE
Unit Reference Number:T/61 7/4998
Unit Title: Contemporary Issues in Education: Theory, Policy and Practice.
Assignment Title: Contemporary Issues in Education
For this assignment you are required to select an area of current debate within your own education setting and evaluate the impact and change it has had on legislatory requirements. You will present your research findings within a fully referenced research report.
Task 1 – (LO1, AC 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3)
·Research recent conceptual changes in educational theory, policy and practice to identify one area that you will focus your research report on.
·Identify and evaluate the influencing factors on education theory, policy and practice related to your chosen area of debate.
·Analyse the implications of education theory, policy and practice on stakeholders related to your chosen area of debate.
Task 2 – (LO2, AC 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 and 2.4)
·Discuss the impact of key policy changes on teaching, learning and assessment in your chosen area.
·Describe the application of continuous improvement in your chosen area.
·Examine the measurement of continuous improvement in your chosen area.
·Evaluate models and theories of quality management in service delivery in your chosen area.
Task 3 – (LO3, AC 3.1 and 3.2)
·Explain the interrelationship between recent developments in the education system and legislation in your chosen area.
·Evaluate current educational practice changed as a result of legislation in your chosen area.
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Submission Requirements;
1.4,500 word processed Research Report.
2.Reference List
3. Bibliography
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Task 1
[ANSWERE]
1.1 One area that has seen significant conceptual changes in educational theory, policy, and practice in recent years is the field of student assessment. Traditionally, assessment in education has often been focused on measuring students’ knowledge and skills in a standardized way, using tests and exams as the primary means of evaluation. However, this approach has been criticized for being too narrow and not capturing the full range of student abilities and achievements.
In response, there has been a growing emphasis on alternative forms of assessment, such as performance assessments, portfolio assessments, and project-based assessments, which aim to provide a more comprehensive and authentic picture of what students know and can do. These types of assessments often require students to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world contexts, and can be used to evaluate not just content knowledge, but also critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and other important skills.
Moreover, recent advances in technology have opened up new possibilities for assessment, such as using data analytics and machine learning to analyze student performance and provide personalized feedback and support.
Given these developments, my research report will focus on the potential benefits and challenges of alternative forms of assessment in education, with a particular emphasis on the use of technology. I will explore questions such as: How can alternative assessments be used to promote deeper learning and engagement among students? What are the most effective ways to incorporate technology into assessment practices? How can educators and policymakers ensure that these new forms of assessment are fair, valid, and reliable? By addressing these questions, I hope to contribute to ongoing efforts to improve student assessment and promote more effective teaching and learning practices.
1.2
1)Benefits of alternative forms of assessment
a) Increased objectivity and reliability: Alternative forms of assessment, such as computer-based testing, can provide more objective and reliable results compared to traditional forms of assessment, such as written exams.
b) Increased accessibility: Alternative forms of assessment can be more accessible for students with disabilities or who have difficulty with traditional forms of assessment. For example, students who are visually impaired can use screen readers to take computer-based tests.
c) Enhanced engagement: Alternative forms of assessment, such as game-based assessments, can increase student engagement and motivation, making the assessment process more enjoyable and meaningful.
d) Greater efficiency: Alternative forms of assessment, such as online testing, can be more efficient in terms of time and cost, as they eliminate the need for paper-based testing and manual grading.
2) Challenges of alternative forms of assessment
a) Technical difficulties: The use of technology in alternative forms of assessment can lead to technical difficulties that can negatively affect the assessment process. For example, network issues or system crashes can disrupt the testing process and compromise the validity and reliability of the results.
b) Lack of authenticity: Alternative forms of assessment may not accurately reflect real-world scenarios or tasks, leading to a lack of authenticity in the assessment process.
c) Cheating: Alternative forms of assessment, such as online testing, can make it easier for students to cheat by accessing unauthorized resources or collaborating with others.
d) Limited scope: Alternative forms of assessment may not be able to measure certain aspects of student learning, such as creativity or critical thinking, which are better assessed through traditional forms of assessment.
3) Influencing factors on education theory, policy, and practice related to alternative forms of assessment
a) Technological advancements: The development of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, can facilitate the implementation of more sophisticated and effective alternative forms of assessment.
b) Changing attitudes toward assessment: There is a growing recognition that traditional forms of assessment may not be adequate in assessing complex skills and competencies, leading to a shift toward alternative forms of assessment.
c) Educational policy and funding: Educational policy and funding can influence the adoption and implementation of alternative forms of assessment, particularly in terms of providing the necessary infrastructure and resources.
d) Teacher training and support: Teachers need to be trained and supported in using alternative forms of assessment effectively to ensure that they are valid and reliable measures of student learning.(Dominguez and de Smet,2018)
1.3
The implications of education theory, policy, and practice related to alternative forms of assessment in education, with a particular emphasis on the use of technology, can have a significant impact on various stakeholders. In this answer, I will analyze the implications of education theory, policy, and practice on stakeholders related to the potential benefits and challenges of alternative forms of assessment in education.
1)Students
a) Benefits: Students can benefit from alternative forms of assessment in various ways, such as increased accessibility and engagement, more efficient assessment processes, and more objective and reliable results. For example, students with disabilities can take computer-based tests that are accessible through assistive technology, and game-based assessments can enhance student engagement and motivation.
b) Challenges: Students may face challenges with alternative forms of assessment, such as technical difficulties, cheating, and lack of authenticity. For example, technical issues may disrupt the assessment process and compromise the validity of the results, while online testing may increase the risk of cheating.
2)Teachers
a) Benefits: Teachers can benefit from alternative forms of assessment by gaining access to more data and insights about student learning, which can inform their teaching practices. For example, computer-based testing can provide more detailed data about student performance, while game-based assessments can provide insights into students’ problem-solving and decision-making skills.
b) Challenges: Teachers may face challenges with alternative forms of assessment, such as the need for additional training and support to effectively use technology-based assessments, and concerns about the validity and reliability of alternative forms of assessment compared to traditional forms of assessment.
3)Educational institutions
a) Benefits: Educational institutions can benefit from alternative forms of assessment by increasing efficiency and reducing costs, as well as enhancing the reputation and competitiveness of the institution. For example, online testing can reduce the need for paper-based testing and manual grading, while game-based assessments can enhance the institution’s reputation as an innovative and engaging learning environment.
b) Challenges: Educational institutions may face challenges with alternative forms of assessment, such as the need for adequate infrastructure and resources to support technology-based assessments, and concerns about the validity and reliability of such assessments compared to traditional forms of assessment.
4)Policy-makers
a) Benefits: Policy-makers can benefit from alternative forms of assessment by promoting innovation and diversity in assessment practices, as well as enhancing accountability and transparency in education. For example, alternative forms of assessment can provide more comprehensive and accurate data about student learning outcomes, which can inform policy decisions.
b) Challenges: Policy-makers may face challenges with alternative forms of assessment, such as the need for clear and consistent standards for technology-based assessments, and concerns about equity and access to such assessments for all students.
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Reference:
Dominguez, M. and de Smet, M., (2018). The promise and peril of alternative forms of assessment. Education Week, 37(35), pp.28-29.
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Task 2 – (LO2, AC 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 and 2.4)
[ANSWERE]
2.1 Discuss the impact of key policy changes on teaching, learning and assessment in your chosen area of the alternative forms of assessment in education with technology.
Key policy changes can have a significant impact on teaching, learning, and assessment in the area of alternative forms of assessment in education with technology. Here are some examples of how policy changes can affect these areas:
a.Teaching: Policy changes that encourage the use of technology in assessment can impact teaching by requiring teachers to develop new skills and strategies to effectively use technology-based assessments. Teachers may need training on how to administer and score computer-based assessments, as well as how to use the data generated by these assessments to inform instruction. In addition, policy changes that emphasize the importance of formative assessment can encourage teachers to use technology to provide more frequent and targeted feedback to students, which can improve student learning outcomes.
b.Learning: Policy changes that promote the use of technology in assessment can also impact student learning by providing more opportunities for students to engage with technology in meaningful ways. For example, computer-based assessments can incorporate interactive features such as multimedia content, simulations, and games that can help to engage students and promote deeper learning. In addition, technology-based assessments can provide more immediate and targeted feedback to students, which can help them to identify areas of strength and weakness and improve their learning outcomes.
c.Assessment: Policy changes that encourage the use of technology in assessment can impact the types of assessments used in education. For example, traditional paper-and-pencil tests may be replaced with computer-based assessments that provide more flexibility and interactivity. In addition, policy changes that require the use of more frequent and formative assessments can encourage the use of technology to provide more immediate and targeted feedback to students. Finally, policy changes that emphasize the importance of data-driven decision making can encourage the use of technology to collect and analyze assessment data to inform instruction and improve student learning outcomes.
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2.2 Describe the application of continuous improvement in your chosen area of the alternative forms of assessment in education with technology.
Continuous improvement is a systematic and ongoing process of identifying and implementing improvements in a particular area. In the context of alternative forms of assessment in education with technology, continuous improvement can be applied to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and validity of such assessments. Here are some ways in which continuous improvement can be applied to alternative forms of assessment in education with technology:
a.Gathering and analyzing data: Continuous improvement requires gathering and analyzing data about the effectiveness of alternative forms of assessment. For example, schools can collect data on student performance on computer-based assessments and analyze the results to identify areas of strengths and weaknesses. This can help teachers and schools to identify areas for improvement and develop targeted strategies to enhance student learning outcomes.
b.Providing feedback: Continuous improvement involves providing feedback to stakeholders on their performance and progress. In the context of alternative forms of assessment in education with technology, feedback can be provided to students on their performance in computer-based assessments, as well as to teachers and schools on the effectiveness of such assessments. This feedback can inform future teaching and assessment practices and help to improve student learning outcomes.
c.Evaluating and refining processes: Continuous improvement requires regularly evaluating and refining processes to ensure that they are effective and efficient. For example, schools can evaluate the effectiveness of their computer-based assessment processes and refine them to enhance the reliability and validity of the assessments. This can help to ensure that the assessments are accurate and provide useful data to inform teaching and learning.
d.Professional development: Continuous improvement involves providing ongoing professional development opportunities to teachers and staff. In the context of alternative forms of assessment in education with technology, professional development can help teachers to develop the skills and knowledge needed to effectively use technology-based assessments. This can help to ensure that the assessments are administered effectively and that the data collected is useful for informing teaching and learning.
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2.3 Examine the measurement of continuous improvement in your chosen area of the alternative forms of assessment in education with technology.
Measuring continuous improvement in the area of alternative forms of assessment in education with technology can be challenging but is essential to ensure that assessment practices are effective and meeting the needs of learners. Here are some ways in which continuous improvement can be measured in this area:
a.Analysis of assessment data: One way to measure continuous improvement is through the analysis of assessment data. By analyzing the data generated by technology-based assessments, educators can identify trends and patterns in student performance, identify areas of strength and weakness, and determine the effectiveness of assessment strategies. This data can be used to develop targeted interventions and to monitor the effectiveness of those interventions over time.
b.Feedback from stakeholders: Another way to measure continuous improvement is through feedback from stakeholders. Teachers, students, and parents can provide feedback on the effectiveness of technology-based assessments, including the clarity of the assessment instructions, the relevance of the assessment questions, and the usefulness of the feedback provided. This feedback can be used to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies to enhance the effectiveness of assessments.
c.Observation and reflection: Observation and reflection can be used to measure continuous improvement in the area of alternative forms of assessment in education with technology. Teachers can observe their own practices and reflect on the effectiveness of their assessment strategies. They can also observe the practices of their colleagues and reflect on the effectiveness of those strategies. This can help to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies to enhance the effectiveness of technology-based assessments.
d.Professional development: Professional development can also be used to measure continuous improvement. By providing ongoing training and support to educators on the use of technology-based assessments, schools can ensure that educators are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to use these assessments effectively. Ongoing professional development can also help educators stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and assessment strategies, ensuring that their assessment practices remain relevant and effective over time.
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2.4 Evaluate models and theories of quality management in service delivery in your chosen area of the alternative forms of assessment in education with technology.
Quality management is a crucial aspect of service delivery in the area of alternative forms of assessment in education with technology. Here are some models and theories of quality management that can be applied in this context:
a.Total Quality Management (TQM): TQM is a management philosophy that emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement in all aspects of an organization. TQM focuses on customer satisfaction, employee involvement, and continuous improvement of processes. In the context of alternative forms of assessment in education with technology, TQM can be applied by ensuring that assessment practices are aligned with the needs and expectations of learners, that educators are trained in the use of technology-based assessments, and that assessment processes are continuously reviewed and improved.
b.Six Sigma: Six Sigma is a data-driven approach to quality management that aims to eliminate defects and reduce variability in processes. In the context of alternative forms of assessment in education with technology, Six Sigma can be applied by using data to identify areas of weakness in assessment practices, developing strategies to address these weaknesses, and monitoring the effectiveness of these strategies over time.
c.Lean Management: Lean management is a methodology that focuses on minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency in processes. In the context of alternative forms of assessment in education with technology, lean management can be applied by streamlining assessment processes, eliminating unnecessary steps, and optimizing the use of technology to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of assessments.
d.ISO 9001: ISO 9001 is a set of international standards for quality management that provide a framework for organizations to ensure that their products and services meet customer and regulatory requirements. In the context of alternative forms of assessment in education with technology, ISO 9001 can be applied by ensuring that assessment practices meet the standards set by regulatory bodies, that assessment processes are continuously reviewed and improved, and that educators are trained in the use of technology-based assessments. (Black & Wiliam,1998)
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Reference:
Black, P., & Wiliam, D. (1998). Assessment and classroom learning. Assessment in Education: Principles, Policy & Practice, 5(1), 7-74.
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Task 3
[ANSWERE]
3.1 Explain the interrelationship between recent developments in the education system and legislation in your chosen area of the alternative forms of assessment in education with technology.
In recent years, the education system has seen a growing emphasis on the use of technology in assessment, with alternative forms of assessment becoming increasingly popular. This shift has been influenced by both technological advancements and changes in legislation that have encouraged the use of technology in education.
For example, the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) in the United States has promoted the use of technology in assessments as a way to provide more timely and accurate feedback to students, parents, and teachers. Additionally, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union has had an impact on how data related to student assessment is collected, stored, and used, requiring schools and education providers to ensure that they are compliant with data protection regulations.
At the same time, recent developments in education theory and practice, such as the growth of competency-based education and the increasing focus on personalized learning, have also influenced the use of alternative forms of assessment. These approaches prioritize student-centered learning and emphasize the importance of assessing students based on their mastery of specific skills and competencies, rather than relying solely on traditional testing methods.
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3.2 Evaluate current educational practice changed as a result of legislation in your chosen area of the alternative forms of assessment in education with technology.
Legislation has played an important role in promoting the use of technology in education, and in particular, in the development and implementation of alternative forms of assessment. As a result of these legislative changes, current educational practice has evolved to incorporate new technologies and innovative assessment methods that can better support student learning and achievement.
One key example of how legislation has influenced educational practice is through the implementation of online assessments. In recent years, many states in the US have adopted online testing as a way to assess student progress and meet the requirements of federal legislation such as the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). This shift has required schools and education providers to invest in technology infrastructure and training to support the use of these assessments, as well as to adapt teaching and learning practices to align with the new testing formats.
Additionally, legislation has encouraged the development of new and innovative forms of assessment, such as digital portfolios and adaptive assessments, that can provide more accurate and personalized feedback to students. These assessment methods align with the growing emphasis on personalized learning and the importance of assessing students based on their mastery of specific skills and competencies.
However, there have also been challenges associated with these changes in educational practice. For example, the implementation of online testing has faced technical issues and concerns about equity and access for all students. Furthermore, the use of new assessment methods has required educators to develop new skills and training to use them effectively.
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Reference:
Darling-Hammond, L. (2010). Teacher education and the American future. Journal of teacher education, 61(1-2), 35-47.