Assessing Student Blog Projects

When considering the assessment and evaluation of student blogs first think about what the overall outcomes of the assignment are. Is it for learning new technological tools, promoting discussion, or is it for applying concepts? Or, all of the above?

In my case, I wanted students to apply what they knew about psychological theory to their own experiences. To accommodate their learning preferences, students were invited to work individually, as a pair, or in a group. They were then asked to sign-up for a course reading that they would summarize and support with additional research. They were to integrate issues, questions, alternative perspectives, opinions, applications, and experiences for how the theory applied to their reality. I emphasized that they needed to personalize their blog to help illustrate the application of the concepts. So, I needed criteria that would reflect these outcomes.

Here is a list of sample criteria that I used for the assignment:

Content

- Explains the main, supporting concepts and ideas in the readings

- Includes additional research to extend or contradict the content of the readings

- Examples and application to real-life scenarios support the key ideas

Voice and Perspective

- Unique voice of the writer(s) is evident

- Compelling and engaging use of ideas

- Questions related to the readings help the reader consider other perspectives

- Perspectives, issues, and opinions are relevant and extend the discussion

Conventions and Organization

- Text is organized in a logical manner that is easy to understand

- Ideas are expressed clearly

- Correct spelling and grammar

- Uses APA referencing

Blog Design

- Overall design reflects the theme and content of the readings

- Background colors and fonts are pleasing to the eye

- Links and video clips are accessible

- Images help illustrate the topic

- A variety of widgets were used to promote interactivity 

A site that I have been recently been introduced to is Meg's Blogology. She has some points  for creating assessments for student blog projects. Kathy Schrock's site has always been a favorite of mine. She has a host of material on assessment and using technology in the classroom.

What are your thoughts about assessing blogs?