Simple Formative Assessment, High Learning Gains in College General Chemistry

Problem Statement: The utility of formative assessment for improving student performance is acknowledged in the literature. For formative assessment to be useful, quality feedback, the proper use of feedback by students and revision of practice to accommodate formative assessment is necessary. However, in the contexts of university level science courses, where, in many cases, there is a heavy load of teaching and assessment on both students and instructors, providing quality feedback, using feedback properly, and changing practice may not be as forthcoming as hoped. Purpose of Study: The purpose of this study is to show that providing opportunities for formative assessment, even at a relatively simple and manageable level, could significantly impact students' achievement and also their attitude toward university level science classes without a considerable change in practice. Methods: This study was conducted in an undergraduate general chemistry course with an emphasis on organic chemistry taken by pre-service middle school science teachers over the period of two spring semesters in two consecutive years. In total, 163 students participated in the study. A qualitative research methodology accompanied quantitative methods for more in-depth understanding. Summative exam results, responses to a questionnaire, observations, and interview transcripts provided the data for the study. Findings and Results: Quantitative results showed statistically significant improvement in experimental group students' exam grades, which was an indication of improvement in achievement and learning. Through qualitative data, positive student reactions toward the formative assessment process used in the study were observed. Insight into students' perceptions of the formative assessment methods and their use of feedback were obtained. Conclusions and Recommendations: The relatively simple formative assessment process utilized in this study has the potential to improve both student achievement and learning and also students' attitudes toward the courses they take. Therefore, university level instructors, who teach science courses, should consider using formative assessment methods, at least at a simple level without a too heavy a load of extra work, to improve student achievement and attitude. However, it is not possible to claim that formative assessment methods will improve student achievement and attitude in all cases.