Assessment: Growing Up Is a Many-Splendored Thing

This overview examines the current state of assessment and what is needed for student learning and success for graduates. In particular, an examination of current reductionist pressures and the focus on limited/disconnected measures related to learning that do not reflect demonstrated student achievement, as well as the emergence of promising alternatives, such as direct assessment (e.g., VALUE rubrics), collaborative efforts (e.g., the Multi-State Collaborative), and e-portfolios that privilege student authorship and creativity. The past twenty years highlight the importance of formative and summative assessment focused on improvement through project-based signature work useful for pedagogical improvements, curricular reform, and accountability.