What enhances the validity of an online assessment?

Clear learning objectives significantly enhance the validity of an online assessment by providing a defined framework for what students are expected to learn and demonstrate. When learning objectives are well-articulated, they help ensure that the assessment measures what it is intended to assess. This means that the questions and tasks within the assessment align directly with the skills and knowledge that have been specified as objectives. Such alignment allows for a more accurate judgment of a student's understanding and capabilities regarding the subject matter.

In contrast, inconsistent grading practices, lack of content coverage, and vague assessment formats can undermine the validity of an assessment by introducing uncertainty and bias. For instance, if there are varying standards for grading, or if the assessment does not cover the necessary content, it becomes difficult to appraise a student’s true understanding. Moreover, vague formats do not provide clear expectations for students, which can lead to confusion and a misalignment between what is being tested and what students have learned. Thus, having clear learning objectives is crucial for creating a valid assessment that fairly measures student learning.