In a world where artificial intelligence is transforming work, schools face a big decision: stick to the familiar path or evolve to really prepare students for the future?
Traditional testing allows for directly observing students as they work, which can provide reassurance and comfort. But while exams have their place to test knowledge recall, relying too much on them risks wasting young people’s huge potential.
Simple memorisation and facts are not going to be the skills and capabilities that are valued most in an AI enfused future. As workplaces change with new technologies, human strengths like critical thinking, problem solving, teamwork and communication become even more important. Getting students ready for this world means assessing them differently too.
Projects, presentations and portfolios give a richer picture of strengths, though the scores aren’t as easily compared. Updating assessments takes effort, no question. New systems and metrics don’t happen overnight. But finding ways to capture real-world learning prepares students for life, not just tests.
While some traditional exams still help, leaning on them too much limits deeper growth. Convenience shouldn’t trump purpose. The good news is some forward-thinking schools are leading the way. The University of Edinburgh’s medical course uses portfolios alongside tests. Project-based learning helps students show what they can do. Judiciously blending old and new approaches seems the wisest way forward.
These are testing times, in more ways than one! As technology transforms education, assessments need to evolve too. School leaders must be disciplined and ask: Does this assessment actually nurture students’ potential? Or does it just maintain the status quo?
Adapting assessments is never easy, but the future beckons those ready to try. As an educator, here are some specific actions I intend to take:
- Review current assessments with Heads of Department and discuss opportunities to incorporate more project-based and portfolio evaluations.
- Research best practices from pioneering schools and programmes successfully using 21st century assessments.
- Pilot blended assessment models on a small scale first to get feedback, and refine our approach.
- Develop teacher training on designing engaging, authentic assessments and rubrics.
- Be patient – culture change takes time! Stay focused on the goal of nurturing students’ potential.
Adapting assessments is never easy, but the future beckons those ready to try. First step? Recognising that when it comes to assessment, easiest isn’t always best.
Matthew Wemyss 