How does 'authentic assessment' differ from traditional testing?

Authentic assessment is distinguished from traditional testing primarily by its emphasis on the practical application of skills and knowledge. This type of assessment aims to evaluate students' abilities in real-world contexts, encouraging them to demonstrate what they can do with their knowledge, rather than simply recalling facts or answering standardized questions.

In authentic assessments, tasks are often designed to be relevant to students' lives or future careers, such as projects, presentations, or portfolios, which allows learners to showcase critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills. This approach promotes deeper learning and helps educators understand how well students can apply their knowledge in meaningful ways.

By focusing on application rather than rote memorization, authentic assessment provides a richer picture of student understanding and capabilities, supporting the development of skills that are essential for success beyond the classroom.