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Paper: Exploring Assessment Tools for Research and Evaluation in Astronomy Education and Outreach
Volume: 443, Earth and Space Science: Making Connections in Education and Public Outreach
Page: 125
Authors: Buxner, S. R.; Wenger, M. C.; Dokter, E. F. C.
Abstract: The ability to effectively measure knowledge, attitudes, and skills in formal and informal educational settings is an important aspect of astronomy education research and evaluation. Assessments may take the form of interviews, observations, surveys, exams, or other probes to help unpack people's understandings or beliefs. In this workshop, we discussed characteristics of a variety of tools that exist to assess understandings of different concepts in astronomy as well as attitudes towards science and science teaching; these include concept inventories, surveys, interview protocols, observation protocols, card sorting, reflection videos, and other methods currently being used in astronomy education research and EPO program evaluations. In addition, we discussed common questions in the selection of assessment tools including issues of reliability and validity, time to administer, format of implementation, analysis, and human subject concerns.
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