Authentic assessment

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Authentic assessment is an umbrella concept that refers to the measurement of "intellectual accomplishments that are worthwhile, significant, and meaningful,"<ref>Wehlage, Newmann, & Secada, 1996, p. 23</ref> as compared to multiple choice standardized tests.<ref>Performance-Based Pedagogy Assessment of Teacher Candidates, Washington State Superintendent of Public Instruction, June 2004</ref>

Authentic assessment can be devised by the teacher, or in collaboration with the student. When applying authentic assessment to student learning and achievement, a teacher applies criteria related to “construction of knowledge, disciplined inquiry, and the value of achievement beyond the school.”

Authentic assessment reflects educational policy research that recommends a “high priority on strategies that research has already shown to increase student learning.”

Authentic assessment tends to focus on complex or contextualised tasks, enabling students to demonstrate their competency in a more 'authentic' setting. Examples of authentic assessments include:

performance of the skills, or demonstrating use of a particular knowledge
simulations and role plays
studio portfolios, strategically selecting items
exhibitions and displays

The concept of authentic assessment is congruent with the State of Washington Basic Education Goals which are also referred to as Student Learning Goals.