Traditionally assessment in a Learning Management System is a necessary and important aspect of the curriculum.However, there are some problems with the traditional form of assessment that are now being examined and revised.The resulting processes are not exactly new but simply improvements on existing processes.These improvements allow the student to more fully learn the content and alleviate some of the stress involved in studies. The process more fully involves the teacher who evaluates the progress of the student to ensure the goals of the curriculum are being met.It gives the teacher valuable data on how well the student retains information.It also allows the teacher to determine if the curriculum is being successfully met. Assessment is a necessary component of a Learning Management System.It helps determine how students are taught.However, if this is the case it is essential the assessment process is accurate.It should take into account teaching and learning strategy, quality assurance of the educational institution and employment requirements in order to allow the assessment to properly drive the curriculum.
Traditional assessment methods either test too frequently or test in an ineffectual manner both to the detriment of the student.For example, if predominantly multiple choice questions are used it forces a top level learning.The same holds true for too frequent assessments that do not allow proper reflection of the material.
The changes in assessment for a Learning Management System allow for more personalization of the curriculum and modification to the material.It takes into consideration the best learning formats for the individual student.Assessment is based on individual as opposed to group results.The assessment is more natural and realistic.It gives students a positive outlook on learning and studies. The changes in assessment affect the way the curriculum is taught.These changes are frequently being accepted by teachers.The methods are not new but refinements of methods that have existed a long time.Even though positive results are indicated they should not be used to the exclusion of more traditional methods.