Medical schools were incorporating active learning strategies in anatomy teaching to accommodate diverse student bodies. Formative assessment and art as a hands-on learning method had been explored as alternatives to traditional teaching methods. Those methods allowed students to practice and assess their understanding of anatomy as they progress.…

As the number of online educational courses continues to grow, it is imperative that we also incorporate effective research-based practices such as the use of formative assessment. This study aimed to examine the relationship of formative self-assessment to academic achievement and self-efficacy in online graduate courses. The research included a…

This study evaluated the effectiveness of Edpuzzle, an interactive media learning tool, in enhancing student achievement in Math and English Language Arts (ELA) among grades 3-11 students in a participating California school district during the 2023-2024 academic year. Employing a retrospective design, the evaluation analyzed Edpuzzle usage data…

With a motivation to immerse students in engineering design, graphics communication, and computer aided design (CAD) skills early-on in the biomedical engineering curriculum, we launched a new 2-unit laboratory course on "Graphics Design in BME" in the Spring 2020 quarter for UC Davis sophomores. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the course…

In the authors' 2017 book "Mastering Formative Assessment Moves" (ASCD), they outlined seven high-leverage formative assessment strategies that promote ambitious teaching and deeper learning. Since then, they've worked with pre- and in-service teachers who are implementing the new English Language Development Standards (2014) in…

The Smarter Balanced Assessment System consists of three components: (1) interim assessments designed to support teaching and learning throughout the year; (2) a suite of tools and resources in Tools for Teachers that support classroom-based formative assessment practices; and (3) end-of-year summative assessments designed for accountability…

Schools are utilizing and acquiring more technology to meet the needs of 21st Century learning and the world that their students will enter into. It is imperative that we implement technology-based formative assessment practices to support teacher pedagogy and increase student achievement. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship…

Since the pandemic, the United States has faced tremendous teacher shortages (Riser-Kositsky, 2021) and national organizations have called for measures to address barriers related to teacher hiring and retention (NEA, 2022a., b; White House, 2022). Many states -- including California -- require pre-service teachers to pass state performance…

Observation tools that measure the quality of children's classroom experiences are a key component of pre-K quality improvement initiatives. However, the information provided by these tools has limitations for improving the quality of instruction for the full range of pre-K program types, even when supported by an instructional coach. This report…

Early childhood assessments can provide important information to guide instruction and inform policy. Given the widespread and growing use of statewide kindergarten entry assessments (KEAs), in particular, it is important that policymakers understand how to choose and use assessments wisely. This brief summarizes research showing how authentic…

Research Findings: The Desired Results Developmental Profile (DRDP) provides formative assessment of five domains of learning and development that are essential for school success. The current study provides an approach for establishing thresholds of readiness using the DRDP in relation to California's early learning expectations. DRDP data…

Oral language is foundational to literacy. Because their language is under construction, emergent bilingual students have unique needs related to literacy development regardless of the language of instruction. Knowledge teachers gain through formative assessment of student oral language can guide decisions about literacy instruction. The purpose…

High-quality early childhood programs aim to foster children's learning through developmentally appropriate practices and environments. Early childhood assessments, when well designed and well implemented, can support developmentally appropriate early learning experiences by providing information to guide instruction and support whole child…

This paper describes the founding principles upon which historically Black colleges and universities (HBCU) are built and examines their role in the high-tech economy. It examines and discusses the diversity issues that have led many to posit that HBCUs should embrace computing, informatics, and engineering as focal areas, and partner with Silicon…

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many instructors were forced to adjust from in-person to emergency remote teaching; however, classroom observation protocols, like the Classroom Observation Protocol for Undergraduate STEM (COPUS), have only been developed and validated for in-person instruction. Therefore, we developed and validated an…