Using Demonstration Assessments to Improve Learning

Abstract

Demonstrations have been used to communicate ideas in chemistry for many years. In introductory classes they are usually presented to illustrate fundamental chemical principles and to promote discussion relating the macroscopic world of chemistry to the molecular and symbolic realms (1). The traditional demonstration/discussion model breaks the monotony of the traditional lecture format and makes the teaching experience more enjoyable. It also fosters the development of a more personal relationship between the instructor and the students and allows students to make a better connection between lecture and laboratory.Recently we described the use of lecture demonstrations to evaluate conceptual understanding and critical thinking skills of K-12 students in physical science (2). In these "demonstration assessments" students view a short demonstration, record their observations, and explain what they observed. Rubrics are applied to score written student responses and promote class discussion. On the basis of this work, one of us (W.C.D.) developed a series of demonstration assessments for freshman chemistry. The study described below was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the demonstration assessments not only as assessment tools, but also as instruments for developing conceptual understanding and critical thinking.

Improving students’ motoric skills through demonstration method in recycling plastic waste

“…This method is a popular way used in the learning process that aims to improve students' motoric skill. In addition, this method also has a positive impact in increasing cooperation among students and student understanding (Basheer, Hugerat, Kortam, & Hofstein, 2017;Noah Ekeyi, 2013;Polizzotto & Tamari, 2015;Ramsey, Walczyk, Deese, & Eddy, 2000;Ranya, Jamhari, & Rede, 2013). Demonstration method is usually combined with other methods such as questioning and answering as well as discussions method.…”

Prop Demonstrations in Biology Lectures Facilitate Student Learning and Performance

“…Another example of an engaging lecture activity is the use of demonstrations, such as the ones used in our study. These prop demonstrations are physically and cognitively engaging and interactive (4, 9) because they require contributions to the discussion from the students and provide an opportunity for students to easily visualize concepts that may otherwise be difficult to comprehend.…”

“…The use of visual pedagogical tools such as demonstrations has been shown to enhance learning (4, 9). The prop demonstrations that we propose, or other appropriate demonstrations, require students to actively engage in the learning experience.…”

A Simple Microscale Setup for Investigating Yeast Fermentation in High School Biology Classrooms

“…The lesson sequence is aimed at prompting students to actively link the observations in the practical work and the underlying scientific ideas. It draws on the ideas of demonstration assessment, a pedagogical strategy used to engage students in explaining the scientific ideas behind their observations (Radford et al, 1995;Ramsey et al, 2000). In demonstration assessment, students are shown a short demonstration and are asked to record as many observations as possible.…”