Scenario-Based Assessment for Improved Learning Environments (2024)

Many organizations believe they can gain immense value from effective, versatile assessments. Whether you’re an instructor trying to improve learning outcomes and prepare your students for a licensure exam or a corporation looking to train employees on new tasks, scenario-based assessment may fit well for your needs.

What Is Scenario-Based Assessment?

Scenario-based assessment is a method of evaluation in which “a hypothetical situation is created in scenario-based assignments where students are required to apply their theoretical knowledge according to the scenario given” (Asian Association of Open Universities Journal). This approach is an extension of experiential learning that is supported by theories such as John Keller’s ARCS Model, Herman Witkin’s Theory, and Cognitive Learning Theory.

Using this model enables the assessor to more accurately evaluate an exam-taker’s mastery of the content by allowing the instructor to see how that individual would use their newly acquired knowledge in real-world circ*mstances. Through the experience of applying academic learning to practical scenarios, students can expand their knowledge beyond the confines of a textbook or lecture. Some of the many benefits of implementing scenario-based assessment include:

  • The development of problem-solving abilities
  • Learning experiences that stick with students
  • A safe space for practicing or developing skills
  • Learning from mistakes by receiving feedback that re-enforces the proper approach
  • The opportunity for guided exploration
  • An alternate assessment type for learners who struggle with other formats

A Scenario-Based Assessment Case Study in University-Level Communications Coursework

A 2012 study conducted at the Virtual University of Pakistan measured the effectiveness of scenario-based assessment exercises for students enrolled in mass communication courses. Students across five different classes were given assignments designed to replicate real-life, professional scenarios. Based on the results of a student questionnaire, as well as the “descriptive statistics, regression analysis, a one-sample t-test, and an independent sample t-test” used to analyze the data, incorporating scenario-based assessment into the curriculum had the following benefits:

  • Increased student-instructor interaction
  • Improved analytical skills
  • Increased understanding of course material

Scenario-based assessments also elicited positive feedback from students on their effectiveness.

Based on the results of this study, the overall learning environment improved through increased student-teacher interaction.

Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCE) and Scenario-Based Assessment

In subject areas where evaluations involve observations and a corresponding rubric, scenario-based assessment is an important tool. A perfect example are the Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCE) used for evaluating future health care professionals.

OSCEs are conducted by having students move through a series of assessment stations where they are tested on the practical skills for their respective health care profession. Some stations involve “standardized patients”, professionals who have been instructed on what symptoms they should present and how to respond to students, dependent on how or what the student presents to them. The student’s interaction with these standardized patients is used to measure their mastery of skills, ranging from patient communication to diagnostic abilities. There is a set team of evaluators, and “all students get examined on predetermined criteria on same or similar clinical scenario or tasks with marks written down against those criteria thus enabling recall, teaching audit and determination of standards” (Oman Medical Journal).

OSCEs allow students to practice under real-world circ*mstances without subjecting actual patients to unnecessary risk. Using a predetermined rubric ensures students receive standardized feedback on where they are exceeding as well as where they need to improve.

A study of nursing students in Taiwan showed that individuals who underwent a scenario-based simulation course in preparation for their OSCEs expressed higher confidence and preparedness than students who participated in more traditional methods.

Business Applications

Scenario-based assessments (and learning [SBL]) also work well in the business world. The processes and outcomes are the same — only the environment is different. Training an employee, rather than a student, using SBL and then assessing them using real-world scenarios has the potential to improve both learning and retention.

Corporations can also benefit from incorporating scenario-based assessment into the hiring process. Asking scenario-based interview questions enables organizations to predict how potential employees would conduct themselves in specific professional situations such as juggling multiple projects, addressing customer concerns, or resolving conflicts with coworkers or supervisors. Here are some popular scenario-based interview questions:

  • How would you handle being asked to perform a task that was completely new to you?
  • Can you tell us about a time you led a project or initiative that did not go as planned? How did you react?
  • Tell us about a time that you disagreed with a supervisor and how you handled that situation?

Questions like these can increase the chances that companies make the most informed decisions on who to hire.

Scenario-Based Assessment Benefits Everyone

Scenario-based assessment is a proven tool for helping students achieve enhanced mastery of course learning objectives, and most importantly, it prepares them for their future careers. Outside of education, this method of examination offers great value to companies who want to assess employees who have been trained for new tasks as well as during the hiring process. This versatile tool has a variety of applications both in education and the professional world.

For more information about scenario-based assessments through ExamSoft,schedule a demo today.

Sources:

Emerald Insight: Scenario-Based Assessment Exercises and the Perceived Learning of Mass Communication Students

CommLab India: All About Using Scenario-Based Assessments in Online Learning

Adobe eLearning: 7 Examples of Scenario Based Learning (SBL) for Formal and Informal Learning

Massey University: What Is Scenario-Based Learning?

Oman Medical Journal: Objective Structured Clinical Examination: The Assessment of Choice

ResearchGate: The Effects of Scenario-Based Simulation Course Training on Nurses’ Communication Competence and Self-Efficacy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Indeed Career Guide: 5 Situational Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Scenario-Based Assessment for Improved Learning Environments (2024)

FAQs

What is an example of scenario based assessment? ›

Here are some popular scenario-based interview questions: How would you handle being asked to perform a task that was completely new to you? Can you tell us about a time you led a project or initiative that did not go as planned? How did you react?

What activities can we use in scenario based learning? ›

You can use several design approaches to craft Scenario Based Learning. These could range from simple images and animations to videos and Interactive Videos and build up real-life situations. It can be used to check the comprehension as well as the application across most of the corporate training needs.

Is scenario based learning effective? ›

Conclusion. Scenario-based learning helps employees acquire skills and handle similar situations more effectively. It helps reinforce knowledge and build better retention. It also helps employees sharpen skills like critical thinking and decision-making.

Which type of assessment is most appropriate for assessing learning difficulties *? ›

Diagnostic assessment is the most preferred type of assessment of learning to check a learner's current knowledge base. Most of the time, it involves a series of questions given at the start of a class or training session to identify a learner's strengths and weaknesses prior to learning.

How do you prepare a scenario-based question? ›

Prepare for situational questions in advance. Identify the key requirements in the job ad. Then find achievements in your past that match. Answer hypothetical interview questions with a problem you faced, a solution you came up with, and a benefit to the company.

What is a scenario example? ›

A possible scenario would be that we move to the city. The most likely scenario is that he goes back to school in the fall. The best-case scenario would be for us to finish the work by tomorrow. In the worst-case scenario, we would have to start the project all over again.

What is an example of a problem-based learning scenario? ›

For example, a problem-based learning project could involve students pitching ideas and creating their own business plans to solve a societal need. Students could work independently or in a group to conceptualize, design, and launch their innovative product in front of classmates and community leaders.

What is the purpose of scenario-based learning? ›

Scenario-based learning teaches skills in a training environment that uses real-life experiences and situations. It can be used in training to demonstrate a wide range of learning topics from safety practices when operating machinery to sensitive soft skills for workplace communications.

What is the first step in the scenario-based learning? ›

The first and foremost step in creating scenarios for learning solutions is to onboard Subject Matter Experts. The aim is to make the scenario highly relevant using the different real-time virtual characters. Professional Subject Matter Experts create the overall learning context and share the relevant options.

What is the most effective assessment for learning? ›

Formative Assessment is the most powerful type of assessment for improving student understanding and performance. Examples: a very interactive class discussion; a warm-up, closure, or exit slip; a on-the-spot performance; a quiz.

Which is most commonly used to method to assess learning needs? ›

The most popular methods are as follows: Survey A questionnaire with any number of questions directed at determining what potential participants may want or need to know.

What are 3 types of assessment for learning? ›

There are three types of assessment: diagnostic, formative, and summative. Although are three are generally referred to simply as assessment, there are distinct differences between the three.

How do you pass a scenario-based interview? ›

The best way to prepare for a situational interview question is to make a list of several specific challenges or obstacles you've faced in the workplace, as well as your greatest accomplishments. Then, using the STAR method, outline the situation, task, action, and result of each situation.

What is a scenario-based questionnaire? ›

A scenario-based questionnaire is a survey method that aims to identify the respondents' decision rules using their responses to a series of scenarios. It is rarely used in agent-based modelling and simulation (ABMS) with most researchers preferring a survey with closed questions as the data collection method.

What are good scenario questions? ›

21 Best Hypothetical Questions That Will Spark Fun Conversations
  • Which five famous people, living or dead, would you want at your imaginary dinner party?
  • You've sold your soul to the devil, what did you sell it for?
  • If you could know the truth behind any secret or mystery, which would it be?
  • You can time travel.
Mar 6, 2023

How do you start a scenario assignment? ›

The best way to write concrete scenarios is to present a problem situation, provide some clues for the learners to identify, and then provide the answer. However, keep in mind the challenge should not overwhelm the learners to the extent that they abstain from putting any effort to find the solution.

What are the five steps of scenario analysis process? ›

To use the tool, follow these five steps:
  • Define the issue.
  • Gather data.
  • Separate certainties from uncertainties.
  • Develop scenarios.
  • Use the scenarios in your planning.

What are the three elements to scenario-based training? ›

Situations that are relatable (as it depicts real-life situations) A problem-solving environment. A decision-making tool that provides an understanding of the impact/consequences of their decisions and choices.

How do you write a scenario example? ›

Table of Contents hide
  1. Step 1: Identify your target audience.
  2. Step 2: Identify learning needs and objectives.
  3. Step 3: Select a situation for the scenario.
  4. Step 4: Select the suitable scenario structure.
  5. Step 5: Design your scenario.
  6. Infographics.
  7. Conclusion.
Jan 26, 2023

What is scenario-based technique? ›

To define – SBL (Scenario-based Learning) is a prominent instructional approach that is used widely for online training purposes. The process of scenario-based learning employs an “active learning” strategy.

What are the 3 different scenarios? ›

3 Different Types of Scenarios You Can Design
  • Building a Linear Scenario. A linear scenario is one where there's a right and wrong answer. ...
  • Building a Branching Scenario. Branching scenarios let learners work through complex ideas by exploring how their choices can lead to different outcomes. ...
  • Building a Looping Scenario.

What are the two main types of scenario analysis? ›

Base-case scenario: A baseline scenario based on current, commonly accepted assumptions. Worst-case scenario: The most negative set of assumptions.

What does scenario mean in teaching? ›

Teaching scenarios are a collection of tasks you may want to achieve in the classroom or while managing your course. Each teaching scenario is paired with a technology-based solution on how to achieve that task. These teaching scenarios may help you answer questions such as: How can I create narrated slides?

What are scenario-based learning theories? ›

Scenario-based learning (SBL) uses interactive scenarios based on the principles of situated learning theory (Lave & Wenger, 1991). It works by simulating real-world practice, provide safe opportunities to engage in situations that may be otherwise difficult for students to experience in their studies.

How is scenario-based learning different from case based learning? ›

Case studies reflect real-life situations where problems need to be solved. Scenario-based learning is more focused toward building communication and teamwork skills. Case studies and scenarios are methods of problem based–learning.

What are the three types of problem based learning? ›

The method for distributing a PBL problem falls under three closely related teaching techniques: case studies, role-plays, and simulations. Case studies are presented to students in written form.

What are the characteristics of scenario based learning? ›

Features of a Successful Scenario-Based Learning Model
  • Backed by a Strong Training Script. ...
  • Highly Realistic. ...
  • Sufficiently Relevant. ...
  • Well-Structured. ...
  • Story-Based. ...
  • Challenging for the Learners. ...
  • Include Gaming Elements. ...
  • Key Takeaways.

Why are some key benefits of scenario analysis? ›

What are the advantages of scenario analysis? The biggest advantage of scenario analysis is that it acts as an in-depth examination of all possible outcomes. Because of this, it allows managers to test decisions, understand the potential impact of specific variables, and identify potential risks.

What is scenario based model and how it might be used? ›

What is scenario based modeling? Scenario based modeling is a process that is used to estimate changes in numbers such as those of the cash flow or balance sheet given changes in events, both favorable and unfavorable, that may impact organizational figures.

What is an example of assessment for learning? ›

Frequent progress monitoring is an example of assessments for learning, where a student's academic performance is regularly assessed between benchmarks to determine if the current instruction and intervention is positively impacting student achievement or if adjustments need to be implemented.

How do you assess the effectiveness of teaching and learning? ›

Gathering information from your students about their experience as learners in your class is a valuable way to assess your teaching. There are many ways of collecting feedback from your students: Small Group Instructional Diagnosis (SGIDs), surveys, webQ's and open-ended feedback forms.

Can teachers use assessment to improve learning? ›

Classroom assessments are particularly important to improve student learning, especially when they comprise formative feedback and help students to understand their own learning strategies.

Which two types of learning can be measured by assessments? ›

Both diagnostic and formative are types of assessment for learning - meaning you are assessing to support decisions made before or during learning.

What are four forms of assessments typically used to identify or support students with a learning disability? ›

The types of tests to consider as part of a comprehensive learning disorder evaluation include intelligence or cognitive abilities tests, achievement tests, visual-motor integration tests, and language tests.

How do you assess learning needs of the learner? ›

Methods of needs assessment can be classified into seven main types, each of which can take many different forms in practice.
  1. Gap or discrepancy analysis. ...
  2. Reflection on action and reflection in action. ...
  3. Self assessment by diaries, journals, log books, weekly reviews. ...
  4. Peer review. ...
  5. Observation.

What are the 4 common assessment methods? ›

A Guide to Types of Assessment: Diagnostic, Formative, Interim, and Summative.

Which type of assessment would be the most reliable? ›

Diagnostic assessment is the most preferred type of assessment of learning to check a learner's current knowledge base. Most of the time, it involves a series of questions given at the start of a class or training session to identify a learner's strengths and weaknesses prior to learning.

What is 1 example of a scenario? ›

A possible scenario would be that we move to the city. The most likely scenario is that he goes back to school in the fall. The best-case scenario would be for us to finish the work by tomorrow. In the worst-case scenario, we would have to start the project all over again.

What are scenarios and examples? ›

A scenario is a specific possibility. To plan on playing with a bunch of bear cubs is a scenario — a dumb one, but still a scenario. When people are wondering what to do, they think of different scenarios. Moving to a big city is one scenario — moving to a tiny town is another.

What is an example of a use scenario? ›

A use case scenario might look something like this: A user goes to the website and browses through the product catalog. The user attempts to add a product to their shopping cart, but discovers the product is out of stock. The user contacts customer service to inquire about the product.

What is scenario based questions? ›

Situational/Scenario. Interview Questions. Situational/ Scenario interviews- are situations or scenarios the interviewer will provide the interviewee to see how they would respond to that situation. This allows the respondent to provide a hypothetical response even if they do not have experience in the field.

How do you start a scenario example? ›

Table of Contents hide
  1. Step 1: Identify your target audience.
  2. Step 2: Identify learning needs and objectives.
  3. Step 3: Select a situation for the scenario.
  4. Step 4: Select the suitable scenario structure.
  5. Step 5: Design your scenario.
  6. Infographics.
  7. Conclusion.
Jan 26, 2023

What is an example sentence for best-case scenario? ›

In a best-case scenario, about 200,000 people might die. This time, stocks are priced for a best-case scenario. We wanted to look at the best-case scenario. In a best-case scenario, this could happen within days.

What is scenario based learning? ›

Scenario-based training is generally interactive, asking learners to think about different potential responses or solutions. Realistic scenarios offer learners the chance to problem-solve and to practice, mentally at least, for situations they might face.

How do you create a learning scenario? ›

5 Rules for Creating Scenarios in eLearning
  1. 1) Identify your training goals.
  2. 2) Create realistic characters.
  3. 3) Tell a story visually; make it come alive in front of the learners' eyes.
  4. 4) Be emotional.
  5. 5) Leave learners wanting more.

What is the use of scenarios in teaching? ›

Teaching scenarios are a collection of tasks you may want to achieve in the classroom or while managing your course. Each teaching scenario is paired with a technology-based solution on how to achieve that task. These teaching scenarios may help you answer questions such as: How can I create narrated slides?

What is the purpose of scenarios? ›

Scenarios are descriptions of one or more users interacting with with a system, device, or process to achieve a goal under specified conditions and constraints. They provide information about the context in which a system has to operate, in a user- and task -oriented way.

What is a practical example of scenario planning? ›

For example, Farmers use scenarios to predict whether the harvest will be good or bad, depending on the weather. It helps them forecast their sales and also their future investments.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Horacio Brakus JD

Last Updated:

Views: 5631

Rating: 4 / 5 (51 voted)

Reviews: 90% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Horacio Brakus JD

Birthday: 1999-08-21

Address: Apt. 524 43384 Minnie Prairie, South Edda, MA 62804

Phone: +5931039998219

Job: Sales Strategist

Hobby: Sculling, Kitesurfing, Orienteering, Painting, Computer programming, Creative writing, Scuba diving

Introduction: My name is Horacio Brakus JD, I am a lively, splendid, jolly, vivacious, vast, cheerful, agreeable person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.