Are Rubric Shortcuts OK?
Is it OK to take a shortcut with rubrics? Join a free online course starting February 1 to discuss the appropriate uses of “minirubrics” and other feedback mechanisms in AACTE’s Online Professional Seminar (OPS) #1: Building Quality Assessments.
Here’s a quick preview: A minirubric is a cross between a rating scale and a short rubric. With criteria barely described, a minirubric cannot be said to provide guidance—but it does provide feedback. And its typical visual form puts color to work for the learner. The rating labels may be identical to those in a full rubric. What’s new is the at-a-glance presentation.
Minirubric from OPS #1: Building Quality Assessments
Minirubrics have several benefits:
- Communicates feedback quickly
- Has visual interest and creates a memorable report
- Prompts a personal conclusion about performance
- Translates well to digital display, including mobile devices
OPS #1 presents various examples of rubrics and surveys and invites participants to bring their own samples to share. As an introductory course, OPS #1 focuses on just two types of assessments. What we learn from participants is that someone is always at the first stage of development and someone else has years of experiences to share. The seminars are open to everyone, regardless of level of expertise. We learn from each other.
Looking for help with another aspect of assessment or accreditation? AACTE has several seminars starting in January and February:
Starting January 11 (registration closes January 6):
- OPS #2: Using Data for Improvement
- OPS #4: Making the Case for Accreditation: Standards and Evidence
Starting January 25 (registration closes January 20):
- OPS #3: Creating a Quality Assurance System
- OPS #6: Leveraging Accreditation for Quality Improvement
Starting February 1 (registration closes January 27):
- OPS #1: Building Quality Assessments
Starting February 8 (registration closes February 3):
- OPS #5: Preparing for Accreditation
Seminars can be taken out of sequence and have no prerequisites. OPS #1 and #2 are free for all participants; other courses cost just $50 per OPS for AACTE members and $125 for nonmembers. To register and view course descriptions, visit AACTE’s Quality Support Initiative web page.
Mary Bold, Ph.D., is a principal at HCB Digital, which collaborates with AACTE to offer Online Professional Seminars.
Tags: assessment, events
