Using High Touch Pedagogy, Authentic Assessment & Student Generated Content to Increase Student Engagement in Online Education

Abstract

Assessments in educational programs typically provide students with measures that include answer selection, information recall, and the completion of faculty generated or standardized tests. While these types of traditional assessment have a role in learning, authentic assessment, learning simulation, and student-generated content enable students to actualize and apply acquired knowledge and skills to real-life scenarios. This session will discuss how high touch pedagogy and assessment can increase student success and prepare graduates for advanced studies, career placement, advancement, and transition. Additionally, this session will share how to integrate individual and group assessments that build upon research relating to neuroplasticity, cultural connection, and reflective practice into online and blended delivery formats. Participants will be able to see actual before and after comparisons and demonstrations of online and blended courses that now utilize authentic assessment, learning simulation, and student generated content in nationally award winning programs. Session attendees will be asked to share their best practices for developing interactive assignments that engage online and blended students and meet course and program learning outcomes.