Perbandingan Sistem Penilaian Konvensional dan Portofolio pada Ujian Akhir Semester Kelas 5 SD

The evaluation of student learning is a crucial aspect of the educational process. It provides valuable insights into student progress, identifies areas for improvement, and informs instructional decisions. In the context of elementary education, the traditional pen-and-paper tests have long been the dominant method of assessment. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in alternative assessment methods, such as portfolio assessment. This article delves into the comparison between conventional and portfolio assessment systems in the context of end-of-semester examinations for fifth-grade students in elementary schools.

The Conventional Assessment System: A Traditional Approach

The conventional assessment system, often referred to as the traditional assessment system, relies heavily on standardized tests, quizzes, and exams. These assessments typically involve multiple-choice questions, fill-in-the-blanks, true-or-false statements, and short-answer questions. The focus is on measuring students' knowledge and understanding of specific facts, concepts, and skills. The conventional assessment system has been a mainstay in education for decades, and it offers several advantages. It is relatively easy to administer and score, making it efficient for large-scale assessments. Additionally, it provides a standardized measure of student performance, allowing for comparisons across different classrooms and schools.

The Portfolio Assessment System: A Holistic Approach

Portfolio assessment, on the other hand, takes a more holistic approach to evaluating student learning. It involves collecting and evaluating a variety of student work over an extended period. This can include essays, projects, presentations, artwork, and other forms of creative expression. The portfolio assessment system emphasizes the process of learning and the development of skills over time. It allows students to demonstrate their understanding in a more authentic and meaningful way. This approach encourages students to reflect on their learning, set goals, and track their progress.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Each System

Both conventional and portfolio assessment systems have their own strengths and weaknesses. The conventional assessment system excels in its efficiency and objectivity. It provides a clear and quantifiable measure of student performance, making it easy to compare students and track progress. However, it can be criticized for its narrow focus on factual knowledge and its limited ability to assess higher-order thinking skills. Portfolio assessment, while more time-consuming and subjective, offers a more comprehensive and authentic evaluation of student learning. It allows students to demonstrate their understanding in a variety of ways, fostering creativity and critical thinking. However, it can be challenging to standardize scoring criteria and ensure fairness across different students.

Conclusion

The choice between conventional and portfolio assessment systems depends on the specific learning objectives and the context of the assessment. For standardized tests and large-scale assessments, the conventional system may be more appropriate. However, for evaluating student learning in a more holistic and authentic way, portfolio assessment offers a valuable alternative. Ultimately, the most effective assessment system is one that aligns with the goals of the curriculum and provides meaningful feedback to students and teachers. By embracing a variety of assessment methods, educators can create a more comprehensive and engaging learning experience for all students.