Technology-Enhanced Formative Assessment Question-Driven Instruction Using Student Response Systems in High School Life Science Classes

Abstract

The evaluation of student learning for the purpose of modifying teaching and learning activities to improve learning outcomes through formative assessment is widely considered to be a best practice for improving student learning. Effective secondary teaching includes measurable improvement of what students know and can do and student performance relies on opportunities to receive and apply feedback. Technology-enhanced formative assessment (TEFA) combines question-driven instruction with student response systems to create a discussion based classroom environment that invites continual feedback. Student-led discussions are the platform for learning with TEFA with the teacher facilitating TEFA also provides the flexibility to assess student learning and target instruction in real time during lesson relevant discussions. This project offers TEFA lessons aligned to the core ideas of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for high school life science that can be readily implemented in most classrooms with existing technology.