Professional Certificate in Developing Performance Tasks

The Professional Certificate in Developing Performance Tasks is a comprehensive program designed for educators, instructional designers, and curriculum developers who seek to enhance their ability to create high-quality, formative assessments that measure students' application of knowledge and skills. This program is tailored for professionals from various educational settings, including K-, higher education, and vocational training, aiming to integrate authentic, performance-based assessment into their curriculum design.

Participants in this program will develop essential skills in crafting performance tasks that align with learning objectives, ensuring they are valid, reliable, and aligned with educational standards. Key knowledge areas include the principles of authentic assessment, the design and implementation of performance tasks, and the use of rubrics to evaluate student work effectively. By the end of the program, learners will be adept at creating tasks that foster deeper learning, promote critical thinking, and prepare students for real-world challenges.

This program significantly impacts careers by equipping educators and professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to design and implement performance-based assessments that not only measure but also enhance students' learning outcomes. Participants will be well-prepared to lead the development of innovative assessment strategies that support educational goals, thereby contributing to the professional advancement and career growth in the field of education.

1. 1. Introduction to Performance Tasks: Learners will explore the concept of performance tasks and their role in educational assessment. They will gain foundational knowledge on designing tasks that measure higher-order thinking skills.
2. 2. Cognitive Learning Theories: Students will delve into key cognitive theories and how they impact the design of performance tasks. Practical skills include applying theories to create more effective and engaging tasks.
3. 3. Alignment with Learning Objectives: This module focuses on aligning performance tasks with specific learning objectives. Learners will develop skills in crafting tasks that accurately assess student understanding and mastery of content.
4. 4. Rubric Development for Performance Tasks: Learners will create detailed rubrics for evaluating performance tasks. They will learn how to define criteria, set levels of performance, and ensure consistency in scoring.
5. 5. Integrating Technology in Performance Tasks: This module covers the use of technology to enhance the design and implementation of performance tasks. Practical skills include using digital tools for task creation and assessment.
6. 6. Group and Collaborative Performance Tasks: Students will design performance tasks that promote collaboration and teamwork. They will learn how to facilitate group work and assess individual contributions effectively.
7. 7. Performance Tasks for Diverse Learners: This module addresses the needs of diverse learners in performance tasks. Learners will develop strategies to ensure all students have equal opportunities to succeed.
8. 8. Assessment of Performance Tasks: Students will learn methods for assessing the effectiveness of performance tasks. Practical skills include analyzing student work, providing feedback, and making adjustments to improve future tasks.
9. 9. Standards and Benchmarks: This module focuses on aligning performance tasks with educational standards and benchmarks. Learners will gain skills in ensuring tasks meet the required competencies.
10. 10. Professional Development and Sharing Resources: The final module focuses on sharing best practices and resources with other educators. Learners will learn how to present their performance tasks and engage in collaborative professional development.