Adaptive Assessment: Personalizing Evaluation in the Digital Age

Abstract

In an era defined by rapid technological advancement and increasing emphasis on individualized learning, the traditional one-size-fits-all approach to assessment is becoming obsolete. Adaptive assessment, a dynamic and technology-driven method, offers a promising alternative by tailoring evaluation to the unique needs, abilities and contexts of each learner. Unlike static assessments, which present the same set of questions to all testtakers regardless of their proficiency, adaptive assessments adjust in real-time based on an individual’s performance, providing a more precise measure of knowledge, skills and competencies. This personalization not only enhances the accuracy of evaluation but also aligns with broader societal shifts toward customization in education, work and healthcare (Bennett, 2011). This chapter explores the concept of adaptive assessment, its theoretical foundations, technological mechanisms, practical applications and the challenges and opportunities it presents for the future. By examining its evolution and potential, we aim to illuminate how adaptive assessment can reshape evaluation practices in the digital age.