In a groundbreaking move, the Civil Engineering (CE) department at Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) has embraced Authentic Assessment (AuA) in its new curriculum, marking a significant shift towards real-world application in student learning. Introduced in the academic year 2023/2024, this innovative approach has garnered widespread acclaim for its student-centered focus and practical relevance.
Authentic assessment, a methodology aimed at evaluating students’ abilities within real-world contexts, has been integrated into various courses within the department. This includes project-based assessments, case studies, and other forms of evaluation that mirror professional scenarios.
The decision to adopt AuA was not taken lightly. In early 2023, CE-ITS convened a crucial meeting with key institutional stakeholders, including the Head of Study Program, course group leaders, lecturers, and academic staff. During this session, the benefits and implementation strategies of authentic assessment were thoroughly discussed and unanimously welcomed by all parties.
Subsequently, a meticulous process ensued to identify suitable courses for AuA implementation, focusing on applied engineering subjects. Led by the Calohea institutional team and course group leaders, this phase involved detailed discussions and collaboration to ensure alignment with course objectives and learning outcomes.
Following extensive planning, the piloting of AuA commenced in September 2023, coinciding with the start of the new semester. Two courses, namely “Design of Coastal Structures” and “Design of Bridges,” were selected for the initial implementation phase.
Students were briefed comprehensively on the AuA tasks at the onset of the semester, outlining expectations and evaluation criteria. The response from students was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity to engage in practical, real-world projects.
Despite initial challenges in fine-tuning AuA tasks to meet learning objectives, the implementation process proved successful, showcasing the department’s commitment to fostering hands-on learning experiences.
This pioneering initiative enhances the quality of education at ITS and equips students with valuable skills and competencies essential for their future careers in civil engineering. As the department continues to refine its approach, the integration of authentic assessment promises to redefine traditional pedagogical practices and inspire a new generation of innovative engineers. Stay tuned for further developments on this transformative educational journey.
While authentic assessment is key if you want to prepare industry-ready graduates and make sure your students achieve complex
One of the tools created by the CALOHEA Erasmus+ project participants in order to facilitate recognition of degrees and
As a participant in the CALOHEA project from the Department of Civil Engineering at Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS),