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Projects

Project‑based assessments evaluate learning through authentic, real‑world tasks that require learners to apply knowledge, skills, and problem‑solving strategies to create a meaningful product or solution.

Group project assembly

Project assessments work especially well in adult education, workforce training, higher education, and competency‑based programs, where learners benefit from demonstrating mastery through applied performance rather than traditional tests. Projects can take many forms, such as presentations, reports, prototypes, digital media, case analyses, or community‑based solutions, and often integrate collaboration, research, and iterative feedback.

 

  • Projects support deeper engagement, stronger transfer of learning, and opportunities for learners to showcase creativity and critical thinking.

  • Challenges include the time required for planning and evaluation, the need for clear rubrics, and ensuring equitable access to tools and resources.

  • When designed intentionally with transparent criteria, scaffolding, and opportunities for reflection, project‑based assessments support multimodal expression and provide a holistic picture of learner competence.

  • Portfolios are powerful when aligned with real‑world contexts that mirror workplace expectations.

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Strengths

  • Data-driven insights and improved decision-making

  • Improved transfer of learning

  • Opportunities for creativity and critical thinking​

  • Deeper motivation and learner engagement

  • Assesses real-world scenarios

Challenges

  • Difficult to standardize, leading to biased evaluation

  • Resource limitations

  • Limited scope of evaluation

  • Time constraints​

  • Potential issues with group dynamics

  • Difficulties in tracking progress

Visual Project
Project Assessment: Example

Community Problem‑Solving Project

Context: Adult Education or Workforce Program

Learners work in small groups to identify a real issue in their local community, such as digital literacy gaps, food insecurity, or workplace communication challenges.

Over several weeks, they research the problem, interview stakeholders, and develop a proposed solution supported by evidence.

The learners' final deliverable includes a written report, a visual presentation, and a short reflection explaining how their project demonstrates key competencies such as collaboration, critical thinking, and communication.

The instructor evaluates the project using a rubric that measures process, product quality, and application of course concepts.

This approach mirrors real workplace tasks and allows learners to demonstrate mastery through authentic performance.

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Explore the following resources for more information:​

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