Ctrl+Alt+Assess: Rebooting How We Measure Learning

Outline

1. Reframing Assessment in the Age of AI (10 minutes)

Present a compelling case for shifting from traditional assessments to authentic, tech-enhanced alternatives.

Use real-world examples of how AI has disrupted conventional evaluation methods. Discuss how "AI Checkers" are not full proof.
Introduce the session’s guiding question: How can we design assessments that measure thinking, not just answers?

ISTE Alignment:
Give ISTE standards alignment and UDL principles

2. Designing for Depth: DOK + SAMR in Assessment Planning (15 minutes)

Dive into how DOK levels and SAMR tiers can be used together to design assessments that challenge students cognitively and creatively.
Participants analyze sample assessments and redesign them using both frameworks.
Use a collaborative digital workspace (Padlet) to document redesigns.

3. Authentic Assessment Formats: Portfolios, Projects, and Performance Tasks (15 minutes)

Showcase examples of student-created digital portfolios, multimedia projects using an array of EdTech tools, and performance tasks.

Discuss how these formats promote student agency, creativity, and real-world relevance.
Participants evaluate which formats best fit their instructional goals using a rubric aligned to ISTE Standards.

4. Tech Tools That Support Meaningful Assessment (15 minutes)

Introduce a curated set of EdTech tools (e.g., Book Creator, Adobe, StoryBoardThat, Padlet) that support authentic assessment.
Instead of a demo, participants analyze each tool’s affordances using a decision matrix: Does this tool support creativity, depth, and student ownership?

6. Closing: From Theory to Practice (5 minutes)

Participants complete a reflection and planning template: What will I redesign next week?
Share a digital toolkit with templates, rubrics, and planning guides aligned to ISTE Standards.

Engagement Process (Refined)

Collaborative analysis using ISTE-aligned rubrics and frameworks.
Design thinking applied to assessment redesign.
Tool evaluation through pedagogical lenses, not product features.
Reflection and planning focused on classroom implementation.

Outcomes

After this session, participants will be able to:
Design alternative assessments—including portfolios, performance tasks, and project-based learning—that align with learning objectives and standards using backward design principles.

Apply the DOK and SAMR models to evaluate and enhance the cognitive complexity and technological integration of their assessments.

Use EdTech tools to create engaging, differentiated assessments that promote higher-order thinking and resist AI-generated responses.

Leave with a ready-to-use assessment plan or template tailored to their classroom or district needs.

Supporting research

Webb, N. L. (1997). Depth of Knowledge (DOK) Framework.

Puentedura, R. R. (2014). SAMR Model: A Framework for Integrating

https://www.iste.org/standards

http://udlguidelines.cast.org

https://myibsource.com/a/blog/rethinking-assessment-in-the-age-of-ai-from-output-to-authentic-learning?srsltid=AfmBOop-v_rI2sRtan0yrAUzCzHG1TVbH8YxwCxj4rsjiwHPJyJoq1W9

https://www.edutopia.org/blog/backwards-planning-thinking-ahead-rebecca-alber