On Friday, September 27, 2024, Indiana University Scholar Dr. Beth Lewis Samuelson delivered a lecture titled "Formative Assessment in US Higher Education: Preparing for US Style Accreditation" at the e-Library auditorium. The lecture was the second in the President's Presentation Series of the American University of Nigeria (AUN), and the first in the fall 2024 semester.
Dr. Beth's lecture focused on the importance of formative assessment, the educational theories that underpin it, the evidence from research, practical strategies and tools, the challenges it poses, and the solutions it provides to enhance learning. She delved deeply into the distinctions between formative and summative assessment, emphasizing that the purpose of formative assessment is to identify students' strengths and weaknesses based on their prior knowledge, enabling faculty to strategize their instructional methods. This involves utilizing improvised tools and educational management systems to guide and ignite students' interests and critical thinking. The essential elements of formative assessment, such as learning goals, feedback, and student involvement, aim to optimize results without the need for assessment. Conversely, students strive to achieve grade points in the summative evaluation.
Dr. Beth suggested some helpful and creative techniques for getting positive results out of students from diverse backgrounds and in difficult situations.
While speaking at the event, President DeWayne Frazier commended Dr. Beth's several achievements and warmly welcomed the guest presenter, thanking her for sharing her knowledge with the AUN community.
"Thank you for allowing us to receive from your wealth of knowledge," he remarked.
The session, which also entertained questions and answers, was really engaging and exciting.
Reported by John Abah