Assessment methodReflective Workbook

Intended to foster active learning through assessment (as well as assess learning through responses to tasks) this technique takes the form of a workbook that students complete progressively throughout a course. The workbook can take several forms (depending on instructor and student preference) including hard copy, digital (e.g. an interactive PDF document that students fill-in) or practical (observed activities in workshops/tutorials). Activities for each week can (and ideally should) vary to include written, spoken and active/constructive tasks. For example, one task used in EDUC3702 sees students create a pedagogical artefact to facilitate a teaching exercise (this has taken the form of PowerPoint presentations, board games, posters etc.). The workbook activities involve a combination of lower and higher order questions to hone descriptive skill and comprehension as well as critical and analytical proficiencies. Staff provide regular feedback to students on the formative questions, so as to encourage and enhance engagement with the higher-level thinking tasks. This technique is adaptable to any HaSS discipline or year level, but does require a time investment from staff in providing ongoing feedback to students. For this reason coordinators should consider the size of their cohort and options to enlist support staff when implementing this technique.