From traditional to cyber CATS: Different breeds for different needs

Research has shown that using formative assessment to inform instruction is one of the most important components of good teaching (Rosenshine, 2012). While many teachers rely solely on questioning and discussion techniques to gauge a class’s comprehension and learning, formative assessment strategies are needed to engage and assess learners individually. Classroom assessment techniques (CATs) facilitate more meaningful learning by providing opportunities for students to self-reflect on their learning while instructors collect information on what and to what degree students learned (Angelo & Cross, 1993). Here are three fresh takes on CATs and how they can be used in online courses.