How do you assess online learning outcomes and ensure academic integrity?

1 Align assessments with outcomes

The first step to assess online learning outcomes is to align them with the course objectives and the instructional activities. This means that you should clearly state what you expect students to learn and do, and how you will measure their achievement. You should also choose assessment methods that match the level and type of learning you want to foster, such as quizzes, essays, projects, portfolios, or presentations. By aligning assessments with outcomes, you can ensure that your online assessments are valid, meaning that they measure what they intend to measure.

2 Use multiple and varied assessments

The second step to assess online learning outcomes is to use multiple and varied assessments throughout the course. This means that you should not rely on a single or final assessment to evaluate student learning, but rather use a combination of formative and summative assessments that provide ongoing feedback and evidence of progress. You should also use different types of assessments that capture different aspects of learning, such as knowledge, skills, attitudes, or behaviors. By using multiple and varied assessments, you can ensure that your online assessments are reliable, meaning that they produce consistent and accurate results.

3 Apply rubrics and criteria

The third step to assess online learning outcomes is to apply rubrics and criteria to guide and grade student work. This means that you should define and communicate the standards and expectations for each assessment, and use them to evaluate student performance. You should also provide clear and specific feedback to students based on the rubrics and criteria, and encourage them to use them for self-assessment and peer review. By applying rubrics and criteria, you can ensure that your online assessments are fair, meaning that they are transparent and equitable for all students.

4 Promote academic integrity

The fourth step to ensure academic integrity in online learning is to promote it as a core value and a shared responsibility. This means that you should explain and model the principles and practices of academic honesty, such as citing sources, paraphrasing, and avoiding plagiarism. You should also create a positive and supportive learning environment that fosters trust, collaboration, and respect. By promoting academic integrity, you can prevent and reduce the likelihood of academic misconduct, such as cheating, copying, or falsifying work.

5 Use technology tools

The fifth step to ensure academic integrity in online learning is to use technology tools that can help you monitor and verify student work. This means that you should use the features and functions of your learning management system (LMS) or other platforms to create and deliver secure and authentic assessments, such as timed tests, randomized questions, or proctored exams. You should also use software or services that can check for plagiarism, such as Turnitin, SafeAssign, or Copyscape. By using technology tools, you can detect and deter academic dishonesty, such as copying, pasting, or outsourcing work.

6 Educate and support students

The sixth step to ensure academic integrity in online learning is to educate and support students on how to succeed and behave ethically in the online environment. This means that you should provide clear and consistent information and instructions on the course policies, procedures, and expectations regarding online assessments and academic integrity. You should also offer guidance and resources on how to develop and demonstrate online learning skills and competencies, such as time management, study strategies, research skills, or digital literacy. By educating and supporting students, you can empower and motivate them to take ownership of their learning and act with integrity.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?