Although technicians are not likely to be required to write formal essays in the workplace, they will be required to write job-related documentation, such as proposals, product descriptions with installation instructions, troubleshooting guides, letters (such as responding to a customer complaint), etc. Asking students to practice the kind of writing that will be necessary in the workplace provides them opportunities to use skills across several disciplines.
A proposal, for example, may include a cover letter, extensive calculations, CAD drawings, product sources, and test data. This type of assessment allows the student to demonstrate skills ranging from mathematics and science to technology and communications.
Think About
Which summative assessment measures do you currently incorporate into your class? What are the advantages and disadvantages? List three ways you might be able to overcome disadvantages.
