Assessment Instruments
Choose the assessment instrument (assignment, exam, project, performance) based on the level of student learning you want to evaluate. Listed below are types of appropriate assessment instruments for different levels of learning. This is not a complete list of types of assessment instruments.
| Levels of Learning and Definitions | Types of assessment instruments |
|
Knowledge—Remember previously learned information |
Exam/test using matching, multiple choice, fill in the blank, short answer and/or essay question; presentation |
|
Comprehension—Demonstrate an understanding of the facts |
Exam/test using matching, multiple choice, fill in the blank, short answer and/or essay question; project; skills assessment |
|
Application—Apply knowledge to actual situations |
Skills assessment; exam/test using matching, multiple choice, fill in the blank, short answer and/or essay question |
|
Analysis—Break down objects or ideas into simpler parts and find evidence to support generalizations |
Research Paper; exam/test using short answer or essay questions |
|
Synthesis—Compile component ideas into a new whole or propose alternative solutions |
Exam/test using short answer questions and/or essay questions; project; papers; reports; presentations |
|
Evaluation—Make and defend judgments based on internal evidence or external criteria |
Project; presentation; papers; reports |
Please contact us for additional information: assessment@smu.edu