Does online testing save time and effort in assessing student learning? That depends. Designing an online test bank is more complex and time-consuming than developing a printed version. One reason is the multi-modality (sounds, images, and kinesthetic interactivity) that online testing can offer, compared to paper-and-pencil resources.

However, an important benefit of online assessment is the nearly instantaneous ability to gather and analyze large amounts of data at any level. Reports can be generated for an individual student at any time over any given period, enabling parents and teachers to monitor a student’s progress. Customized reports can be quickly generated for a specific class or instructor; for a particular school; and even for an entire school district. School administrators increasingly use online assessment to check their progress on NCLB measures.

Online testing can also provide support for test preparation, freeing up valuable class time. Rubrics for performance assessments and essays are built-in. Tests are frequently correlated to state and national educational standards or other learning objectives. Such correlations simplify the process of administering the tests.

How does online assessment enhance the student’s learning experience? The answer here depends on the quality of the particular assessment vehicle. If assessment items closely match the learning that is taking place as well as desired objectives and outcomes, the experience will be meaningful. If, in addition, the testing program provides feedback to users, it benefits the student’s ability to learn by reviewing the material.

The more engaging the format—such as interactive simulations and animations—the more likely a student is to retain information during formative online assessment. In fact, new developments, such as game-like scenarios, promise an even richer teaching and learning experience online.

Online assessment also offers flexibility in time, place, and other testing options. This flexibility can provide equitable opportunities for students, such as those with special needs, to demonstrate their knowledge.

Where do I begin? Check with your school’s administrator or technology supervisor to see what options are available for online assessment. Most textbook publishers offer free or subscription-based online testing in connection with their products, such as Glencoe’s PassKey, so check the publisher’s web site.

A variety of web-based assessment tools are available to teachers directly. Many of these can be found by simply entering “online assessment” as a key term in your favorite search engine. Reliable sites include QuizStar, Discovery Education’s Quiz Center, These sites are usually free and may require registration.

For more information:

Making Online Assessment Work (www.schoolcio.com/showArticle.php?articleID=187200725)

Online Assessment in Mathematics and Writing: Reports from the NAEP Technology-Based Assessment Project (http://nces.ed.gov/Pubsearch/pubsinfo.asp?pubid=2005457)