I created a topic test for my math 6 classes at the end of the unit. The Skyward Assessment had many positives and a few negatives as well. The things I really liked are:
Some of the things that I didn't like were:
Administering he test was a bit of a trial and error. After I administered the test the first time, I found out that so many students had not completed the test, I believe due to the question types. So, I edited the test and attempted to give hints and simplify some of the questions (i.e. give simple computation instead of word problems). during this process, I deleted the student scores. However, no students that submitted the test, passed the assessment so I was actually relieved that they would be able to retake the test.
The second attempt went much smoother, except it was on a Friday and with shorter time, many students did not finish. I asked them to complete it at home, but at last count, anywhere from 2 to 10 students per class have not finished. Now, I have to come up with a plan for corrections and a retest for students who want to try again. I'm still working on this.
- The assessment was quick and easy to create. I was able to copy and past information from an existing test on Successnet.
- I LOVED how the test was autoscored (using multiple choice, matching, and T/F questions).
- The administration was simple. The students are used to computerized testing.
- I liked being able to share the assessment with other teachers. Something not possible on Successnet.
Some of the things that I didn't like were:
- The test I created had too many word problems and I think the students got bogged down with trying to figure out what was being asked of them.
- The logon information is different from their usual logons so it is more difficult to access.
Administering he test was a bit of a trial and error. After I administered the test the first time, I found out that so many students had not completed the test, I believe due to the question types. So, I edited the test and attempted to give hints and simplify some of the questions (i.e. give simple computation instead of word problems). during this process, I deleted the student scores. However, no students that submitted the test, passed the assessment so I was actually relieved that they would be able to retake the test.
The second attempt went much smoother, except it was on a Friday and with shorter time, many students did not finish. I asked them to complete it at home, but at last count, anywhere from 2 to 10 students per class have not finished. Now, I have to come up with a plan for corrections and a retest for students who want to try again. I'm still working on this.