AI usage policy and process-oriented assessment: key updates for learners
In the ever-evolving world of online education, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) has unlocked new opportunities and challenges. While AI tools have proven invaluable in enhancing learning experiences, their rapid advancement has raised questions about the authenticity of learners’ outputs. To address this, the European Schoolnet Academy decided to update its policy for learners and introduce a new assessment approach in the courses: process-oriented assessment.
| Updated European Schoolnet Academy policy regarding the use of artificial intelligence As a participant in this course, we expect to see your own unique ideas shine through! If you wish, feel free to use AI tools just like you would seek a friend’s help – for discussing ideas or proofreading. The key is to keep your thoughts original while acknowledging how AI can enhance your learning journey. However, it is crucial to use AI responsibly and ethically which means that you need to adjust the AI-generated output to ensure the work is yours and suits your context and objectives, rather than merely copying and pasting the AI-generated answer. Furthermore, if you use AI, it is essential to disclose how it has been used to whoever sees the output, unless the final result is significantly edited and can be considered an entirely new work. Please be aware that if these rules are not followed, the submitted work may count as a case of plagiarism which will result in disqualification from receiving the certificate. Any suspected misuse of AI will be carefully investigated by our team upon which a decision will be reached and communicated to any affected users. |
Emphasising the process, not just the final product
Traditional assessment methods, which focus solely on the final deliverable, risk overlooking the learning process and the skills acquired along the way. Process oriented assessment shifts the focus from merely evaluating the final course output to assessing the entire journey of its development. Rather than treating the final output as the sole indicator of success, we evaluate the steps taken to develop it, ensuring that learners actively engage with the material and demonstrate their understanding. This approach not only reduces over-reliance on AI for final outputs but also enhances the overall learning experience by encouraging reflection, creativity, and critical thinking in a developmental learning journey.
How process-oriented assessment works in practice?
- Learners are required to submit their work accompanied by reflections on their decisions and thought processes. They are encouraged to articulate the sources of inspiration for their output, particularly mentioning those provided through the course.
- They are also invited to describe the steps taken to create an outline and explain how their thoughts were organised during the planning process.
- Learners are also required to explain how they utilised AI tools or any other resources, if any, to support their learning.
- Feedback is still provided to and received from peers, but the evaluation of the final submission is contextualised within the learner’s documented process. This ensures that the assessment reflects both the end product, and the skills demonstrated throughout its development.
By highlighting both the development process and the final product, we aim to create a more engaging, transparent, and equitable learning environment. This approach not only addresses the challenges posed by AI but also unlocks its potential to enhance education.
We invite participants in our courses to embrace these updates, adopt this new methodology, and join us in shaping the future of online learning. Together, we can ensure that education remains authentic, impactful, and aligned with the dynamic digital landscape.
0 Comments