Assessment for learning using digital knowledge maps

As the importance of formative assessment, assessment tools that evaluate the structure of one's knowledge, and computer-based assessment are becoming increasingly recognized, it is worthwhile to consider if and how digital knowledge maps can be utilized as assessment to support learning. In this chapter, we present evidence that digital knowledge maps do indeed meet the criteria deemed necessary for effective for ative assessment-they validly assess higher-order knowledge, identify specifi c conceptual strengths and weaknesses of students, provide feedback that can be used to effectively improve learning, and can be user friendly for both students and teachers. We conclude the chapter with a discussion of several recently developed formative assessment systems meeting these criteria that rely extensively on the use of digital knowledge maps.