Case
Online Assessments

Fourth grade in our county is taking their standardized test on the computer for the first time. In order to give them practice with this format, I give them their weekly tests online. Thy are not taking it seriously, however. With the online format, they do not feel the need to go back and review answers like they did when they had a scantron and a booklet. I have implemented choice boards where if they score a passing percentage, they are able to pick a reward. I know it is the format because if they fail, I print out the text and have them take it with pencil and paper before they see their score to compare. On average, 65% of the students who fail online pass when retaken with pencil and paper.
I am hoping they will take it more seriously when it comes to the standardized test, but I don't want to rest on assumptions. How can I get them to go back and check their work?

Posted on: 03/15/15 | Views: 1289
Solution #1
I like your idea of including choice boards for students who do well initially with the computer-based assessment. One thing you might want to try is modeling how to check your work when using the computer to help students who may be unsure of the mechanics. You could also have the students jot down their answers with paper/pencil while taking the assessment online, so they can go back and review their answers on paper but still complete the assessment online.

Friday I was walking down the hall and heard a teacher having the same probably. She was very upset because her students were just clicking answers. I teach kindergarten and so we have not dealt with the computerized testing. I think it would be good to have consequences and rewards for rechecking answers. Students are not use to working on computers with their test. It will take time for them to realize it is just like a written test and it will have the same consequences if they do not do well.

I like this idea to reward rechecking answers. This will stimulate students until they are comfortable with online assessments.

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Solution #2
You are on the right track with implementing choice boards. Positive reinforcement is a good strategy. Be explicit with your expectations and reinforce the importance of rechecking your work. Look into social stories that have positive outcomes for those that are recheck work and give examples of what can happen when people are careless with paperwork.
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Solution #3
I would just reinforce the importance of going back to check their work as much as possible. Relate it to writing. Whenever authors write, they are never satisfied with their work the first time. It is important to go back to revise and edit their writing. Maybe this metaphor will help students understand the importance.
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Solution #4
It is a great idea for the students to practice online standardized test procedures. In order to reinforce that they must check their answers, on the next practice (since it is practice only), provide your students with paper and pencil to use during the test.(your question does not state what content area the test is based). After they have answered a question, the students need to write down the evidence/mathematical equation, critical thinking, etc. that led them to respond the way they to did to the related question. Begin the test, wait until all students have answered the first question and have written down their evidence/equation, then have them go on to question two. Repeat the procedure until the test is complete. Not only will this provide the students with the additional reinforcement they need to check their answers, but it will also allow you to see where there may be a need for content review.
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Solution #5
Maybe you could set up check point and have them go back every 5 questions to get them in the habit
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Solution #6
Perhaps a tangible reward will motivate your students. For example, tell them that is they pass the test, you will give them a few extra minutes to go to an educational website of their choice, or extra library time. Believe it or not, that works well for my middle school students who have to take all assessments online.
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