What defines an authentic assessment?

An authentic assessment is characterized by its focus on real-world applications and the demonstration of skills as they would be used in practical situations. Performance-based skills evaluation aligns with this definition because it requires students to perform tasks or create products that demonstrate their knowledge and abilities in a context that mirrors real-life scenarios. This type of assessment allows educators to gauge not just what students know, but how they can apply that knowledge in meaningful ways.

By evaluating students through performance tasks, educators gain insight into their critical thinking, problem-solving, and application of skills in addition to simple recall of information. Authentic assessments often emphasize higher-order thinking skills, collaboration, and the ability to navigate complex tasks, making them a valuable part of a comprehensive evaluation strategy in education.