What does authentic assessment utilize to evaluate student learning?

Authentic assessment is designed to evaluate student learning by incorporating multiple forms of evaluation that provide a comprehensive view of a student's abilities, skills, and understanding. This approach goes beyond traditional testing methods by measuring learners’ performance in real-world contexts and situations.

By using various assessment methods—such as projects, presentations, portfolios, and self-assessments—authentic assessment allows for a richer understanding of a student's learning and the application of knowledge. It considers not only what students know but also how they can apply what they have learned in practical scenarios, fostering deeper engagement and understanding.

This method contrasts with more traditional forms of assessment, such as multiple-choice tests, which may assess knowledge recall but often do not effectively measure critical thinking, problem-solving, or the application of skills in authentic situations.