What method assesses how students apply their knowledge and skills in real-world situations?

Authentic assessment stands out as a valid method for evaluating how students apply their knowledge and skills in realistic contexts. This approach emphasizes practical tasks and activities that mirror real-world challenges, thereby allowing students to demonstrate what they can do outside of traditional testing environments. For instance, in an authentic assessment, students might engage in projects, presentations, or portfolios that require them to apply concepts in ways that are relevant and meaningful.

This contrasts with standardized testing, which primarily focuses on measuring students' knowledge through a series of predetermined test items that often do not reflect practical application. Formative assessment, while important for ongoing feedback and improvement throughout the learning process, typically evaluates students’ progress in learning rather than their ability to apply skills in real-life situations. Peer review also has its benefits in fostering critical thinking and collaboration but does not specifically assess the application of knowledge and skills in a broader, real-world context. Therefore, authentic assessment is specifically designed to highlight how well students can transfer their learning to practical scenarios.