Book Review: Classroom Assessment Techniques: A Handbook for College Teachers (Second Edition)

 

Overview

Classroom Assessment Techniques: A Handbook for College Teachers by Thomas A. Angelo and K. Patricia Cross is an essential resource for educators seeking to enhance teaching effectiveness and improve student learning through systematic assessment methods. Now in its second edition, this handbook provides a comprehensive overview of various assessment techniques specifically designed for the college classroom.

Structure and Content

The book is organized into three main parts:

1. Getting Started in Classroom Assessment: This section introduces the concept of classroom assessment, its purpose, characteristics, and the fundamental assumptions underlying effective assessment practices. It emphasizes the importance of continuous feedback for both instructors and students.

2. Classroom Assessment Techniques (CATs): Here, the authors present fifty distinct assessment techniques that educators can employ to gauge student understanding and enhance learning. Each technique comes with a detailed description, its purpose, related teaching goals, and practical examples across various disciplines.

3. Building on What We Have Learned: This concluding section discusses lessons learned from implementing classroom assessments and offers insights into future directions for assessment practices.

Key Features

• Practicality: Each CAT is presented in a user-friendly format, providing step-by-step instructions for implementation, making it easy for instructors to adopt and adapt the techniques to their courses.

• Diversity of Techniques: The techniques cover a broad spectrum of assessment methods, from simple feedback tools like the Minute Paper and Muddiest Point to more complex methods like Concept Maps and Analytic Memos. This variety allows instructors to choose assessments that align with their specific teaching goals and the needs of their students.

• Emphasis on Student Engagement: The handbook encourages active student participation in the assessment process, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Techniques such as Group-Work Evaluations and Classroom Assessment Quality Circles highlight the importance of student input.

Practical Applications

The techniques outlined in this handbook are not only applicable to traditional lecture-based courses but are also highly versatile, making them suitable for online and hybrid learning environments. For instance, the use of Applications Cards can effectively assess how well students are applying concepts learned in class to real-life situations, thereby promoting deeper learning and understanding.

Strengths

• Clear and Concise: The writing style is accessible, making complex assessment concepts easy to grasp for educators at all levels of experience.

• Research-Based: The authors draw on a wealth of research and practical experience, providing a solid theoretical foundation for their techniques.

• Focus on Improvement: The overarching goal of the book is to empower educators to enhance both their teaching and their students’ learning experiences. The feedback loop established through these techniques helps educators make informed adjustments to their instruction.

Areas for Improvement

While the handbook is comprehensive, some readers may find it beneficial to have more examples from a wider range of disciplines, particularly in specialized fields. Additionally, the book could include more case studies that illustrate the successful implementation of these techniques in diverse classroom settings.

Conclusion

Classroom Assessment Techniques: A Handbook for College Teachers is an invaluable resource for educators committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement in their teaching practices. With its practical strategies and emphasis on student engagement, this handbook is a must-have for any instructor looking to enhance the learning experience in their classroom. Whether you are a seasoned educator or new to teaching, this book will provide you with the tools necessary to implement effective assessment practices that truly benefit your students.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

This handbook not only equips educators with practical assessment techniques but also inspires a shift towards a more reflective and responsive teaching approach, making it an essential addition to any educator's library.