Problem Solving Learning Environments and Assessment: A Knowledge Space Theory Approach

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Problem Solving Learning Environments and Assessment: A Knowledge Space Theory Approach
Language: English
Authors: Reimann, Peter, Kickmeier-Rust, Michael, Albert, Dietrich
Source: Computers & Education. May 2013 64:183-193.
Availability: Elsevier. 3251 Riverport Lane, Maryland Heights, MO 63043. Tel: 800-325-4177; Tel: 314-447-8000; Fax: 314-447-8033; e-mail: JournalCustomerService-usa@elsevier.com; Web site: http://www.elsevier.com
Peer Reviewed: Y
Physical Description: PDF
Page Count: 11
Publication Date: 2013
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Descriptors: Teaching Methods, Psychometrics, Problem Solving, Test Theory, Evaluation Methods, Educational Environment, Models, Computer Software, Simulation
DOI: 10.1016/j.compedu.2012.11.024
ISSN: 0360-1315
Abstract: This paper explores the relation between problem solving learning environments (PSLEs) and assessment concepts. The general framework of evidence-centered assessment design is used to describe PSLEs in terms of assessment concepts, and to identify similarities between the process of assessment design and of PSLE design. We use a recently developed PSLE, the ProNIFA system, to illustrate the concepts of student model, evidence model, and task model, concepts that provide for a close link between problem solving teaching software and assessment concepts. We also introduce ProNIFA because it uses a mathematical method developed in psychometric test theory--Competency-based Knowledge Space Theory (CbKST)--for building a student model based on observations on students' problem solving performance. The experiences made with methods such as CbKST lead us to the conclusion that the time has come to more frequently integrate assessment components into PSLEs, and to use problem solving and simulation environments as part of assessment environments. This will contribute to making assessment more authentic and less obtrusive, and making PSLEs more relevant in formal educational settings. (Contains 1 table and 6 figures.)
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2013
Accession Number: EJ1008307
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:This paper explores the relation between problem solving learning environments (PSLEs) and assessment concepts. The general framework of evidence-centered assessment design is used to describe PSLEs in terms of assessment concepts, and to identify similarities between the process of assessment design and of PSLE design. We use a recently developed PSLE, the ProNIFA system, to illustrate the concepts of student model, evidence model, and task model, concepts that provide for a close link between problem solving teaching software and assessment concepts. We also introduce ProNIFA because it uses a mathematical method developed in psychometric test theory--Competency-based Knowledge Space Theory (CbKST)--for building a student model based on observations on students' problem solving performance. The experiences made with methods such as CbKST lead us to the conclusion that the time has come to more frequently integrate assessment components into PSLEs, and to use problem solving and simulation environments as part of assessment environments. This will contribute to making assessment more authentic and less obtrusive, and making PSLEs more relevant in formal educational settings. (Contains 1 table and 6 figures.)
ISSN:0360-1315
DOI:10.1016/j.compedu.2012.11.024