Assessment Track (BKE): insights from participants
In academic year 2023-2024, the Assessment Track (‘BKE’) was offered for the first time, providing a unique opportunity for UTQ+-teachers to delve deeper into the competency Assessment for which they laid the foundation during the UTQ trajectory. Through interactive workshops, self-study, and collaborative projects, participants were encouraged to reflect on their current approach to assessment and provided with tools to enhance their assessment quality, ensuring constructive alignment with Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs).
This Teacher Story highlights the journey of some participants of the track, specifically, Natalie Cappaert (FNWI), Kees Haasnoot (EB), and Roel van Engelen (FMG) and the impact of the Assessment Track on their teaching practices.
Analyze your own assessment and find ways to improve it
“A practical, hands-on approach to improve assessments that really makes you reflect on your teaching methods.” – Kees Haasnoot
Over a period of 8 months, 10 teachers from different faculties within the UvA participated in the Assessment Track. This track consisted of fice interactive worskhops led by Ingrid Pancras and Hannah Kousbroek (TLC assessment specialists), self-study (literature and assignments), and workplace learning, in which participants explored to place of their subject within the assessment policy and curriculum of their own program, worked on improving their own assessments, and consulted fellow teachers for input and feedback.
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The Assessment Track emphasizes practical application by having participants analyze their own assessments and make improvement suggestions. Following the seven stages of the assessment cycle, participants reflect on their methods and develop concrete suggestions for improvement. This practical, hands-on approach not only allows participants to reflect on their current methods but also implement effective changes. Kees Haasnoot notes, “We were encouraged to bring our own assessments and work on concrete improvements.” |
Assessment improvement: the key to better education
“This track encouraged me to think about my assessment strategies, making sure they are well constructively aligned with my learning objectives” – Natalie Cappaert
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By evaluating one of their own assessments, this track encourages participants to consciously reflect on their assessment methods and ensure that there is constructive alignment. One benefit of this reflective process is highlighted by Kees Haasnoot. He explains that consciously working on his assessment methods allowed him to thoroughly evaluate his approach and gain valuable insights into areas for improvement that could take his teaching to new heights. Natalie Cappaert says, “Reflecting on my current assessment methods and (re)understanding the importance of constructive alignment was incredibly valuable for improving both my assessments and my teaching methods.” She explains that assessments should align well with your learning objectives. Both participants report that the insights gained from this track have prompted them to rethink not only their assessments, but also the teaching done in their courses. |
Share experiences and learn from colleagues from different faculties
“Working with colleagues from different faculties provides diverse perspectives on assessment challenges and solutions. It is incredibly valuable to learn from each other.” – Natalie Cappaert
| The Assessment Track by TLC thrives on collaborative learning, where participants from various faculties share insights and tackle assessment challenges together. Natalie Cappaert found it “incredibly valuable to learn from each other,” highlighting the diverse perspectives gained. This exchange of ideas helped participants to see commonalities and differences in assessment practices across departments. Roel van Engelen adds, “The collaborative projects allowed us to pool our expertise and develop innovative approaches to assessment.” This collective effort not only broadens understanding but also sparks new ideas on how to implement the insights in their own faculty or domain. |  |
“Sharing experiences and discussing ideas with colleagues provided new insights. It highlights the similarities and differences in assessment practices across faculties.” – Kees Haasnoot
Who should follow this track?
Aside from participants sharing their experiences with the track, they also share recommendations on who should follow this track. Roel van Engelen suggests that the track is highly beneficial for anyone involved in assessment practices. Similarly, Kees Haasnoot advises that “it’s crucial for anyone responsible for assessments to undergo this training, especially those coordinating courses and acting as examiners.”
Have you finished your UTQ and do you want to learn more? Enroll in this track (or the track Mastery in Course Design)!
“This track is a must for any teacher looking to improve their assessment skills.”
– Natalie Cappaert
UvA Teachers featured
TLC assessment specialists featured
