Impact and dynamics of portfolio assessment and traditional assessment in a college physics course

Popular belief in alternative assessment procedures suggests that the use of student portfolios can help learners successfully organize and integrate newly acquired scientific knowledge. This two-group comparison study documents the use of student created portfolios in an algebra-based, college-level, introductory physics course. Sixteen students were assessed primarily using a portfolio-style assessment procedure. Nineteen students were assessed primarily using traditional, objective examinations. Both groups were given the same cumulative, multiple-choice final examination. All students completed a pre- and post-self-report survey of achievement in physics. There were no significant differences in learner achievement between the two groups on the final examination or on the self-report of achievement given before and after instruction. Analysis of two focus group discussions did, however, suggest that students assessed by portfolios feel less anxious about learning physics, devote considerable time to reading and studying outside of class, internalize and personalize the content material, and enjoy the learning experience. The results of this study suggest that portfolio-style assessment procedures support student achievement at least at the same level as traditional assessment procedures and appear to have additional benefits. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 34: 255–271, 1997.     

Differences in associations of product- and process-oriented motor competence assessments with physical activity in children

ABSTRACT

There is a positive association between motor competence and physical activity in child populations. Little is known about the relative variance explained in physical activity when process- versus product-oriented approaches are used for evaluating motor competence. This study aimed to examine associations between product- and process-oriented motor competence assessments and their capability to explain variance in physical activity. Participants included 167 children between the ages of 6–9 years. The run, jump, throw and kick were assessed using process-oriented (Test of Gross Motor Development-2^nd edition) and product-oriented (run time, jump distance, throw and kick speed) assessments. Physical activity was assessed via Yamax Digi-walker NL2000 pedometers. Weak to strong correlations between process and product assessments were found (range: r = ± 0.01 to ±0.81). Statistically significant correlations between process and product scores were more frequent for the kick and throw. Both product- and process-oriented assessments were poor at explaining variance in pedometer assessed physical activity. No more than 4% of variance in physical activity could be explained by a single skill, regardless of whether product or process scores were used. Continued examination of associations between process- and product-oriented assessments may provide a more holistic understanding of motor competence across developmental time.     

‘Why single me out?’ Peer mentoring,autism and inclusion in mainstream secondary schools

The past decade has seen an increase in the number of students with autism attending mainstream educational provision. Improving outcomes for this group is a complex issue given the deficit of evidence‐based practice. A new peer mentoring programme developed for students with autism in mainstream secondary schools was evaluated using a combination of quantitative and qualitative measures. Twelve students with autism and 36 students without autism participated in the programme across five schools in the south‐east of England. Students with autism were assessed using the Harter Self‐Esteem Questionnaire, Loneliness and Social Dissatisfaction Scale and the Anti‐Bullying Alliance survey. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted to record their views and experiences of the programme. Significant gains in self‐esteem, social satisfaction and a reduction in bullying were seen over the course of the programme. These findings have wider implications for the ways in which educational approaches, strategies and interventions are developed and delivered in schools.