Leveraging LMS Technology to Deliver Formative Assessment in the Post-Pandemic Era

Abstract

Learning management systems are technology-based platforms that facilitate the delivery of educational content online. These platforms allow students to review course materials, communicate with instructors and peers, engage in group work, access linked technologies, and complete assignments. Instructors deliver stock and custom content, grade learner submissions, hold live meetings with students, and provide learner feedback through learning management systems. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, instructors have increasingly relied on the learning management systems to deliver formative assessments in online, on-ground, and hybrid courses. At the same time, university administrators have prioritized improving the quality of online instruction. Some have endorsed formative assessment as a priority strategy for ensuring quality instruction. However, research indicates that higher education instructors frequently fail to implement formative assessment effectively, limiting the potential benefits of this essential pedagogical strategy. The widespread release of Chat-GPT and other generative artificial intelligence technologies in late 2022 challenged traditional methods for conducting educational assessments, making it even more critical for instructors to use effective formative assessment practices. This chapter offers evidence-based strategies and best practices from the literature to assist faculty in harnessing learning management systems for effective formative assessment delivery.