Are skill standards-based assignments and assessments special?
Yes! Standardized testing is helpful for diagnosing a student’s ability to perform a discrete skill or recall discrete information. Because the skill standards in question here are industry skill standards, the kinds of assignments and assessments need to be able to measure more “real world” skills such as problem solving, working in teams, and planning and implementing projects. In order to teach and assess such skills, new kinds of assignments and assessments that focus on these skills, in addition to content, need to be devised. Skill standards-based activities require students to apply what they have learned to new situations. Scenario-based assignments, project-based activities and team learning help teach these skills. Rubrics help assess them. Skill standards-based assignments and assessments are more authentic and utilize alternative assessment methods. Of course, well structured assignments share more than being skill standards-based and real world-focused. Characteristics tha
