What Makes

an Activity
"Authentic"?
 Authentic activity involves
learners performing tasks
that require at least the
same cognitive activity, if
not the same physical
activity as would be
necessary in the real world.
By Dr. Michael Allen
Challenge
How does the task challenge learners
to construct knowledge rather than
rely on memorization?

BUT take care of the difficulty level

of challenges.
Outcome Focus
An authentic assessment should be
outcome-focused, meaning that it aims to
evaluate not just what learners know but
also what they can do with that
knowledge.

Assessments should result in a

tangible performance or product.
Transferable
Knowledge
How does this learning outcome
translate beyond the classroom into
real-world applications?

Consider contextualizing tasks to

professional settings.
Metacognition
How can we encourage students to
engage in metacognitive processes
such as critical reflection and self-
evaluation to enhance their learning
and prepare them for successful
performance in the workplace?

Prompt students to consider

what they'd change and what
they did well.
Accuracy in
Assessment
How does the assessment measure
real-world abilities and acknowledge
the importance of the process, not just
correct answers?

While not promoting incorrect

answers, acknowledging effort
can be motivating for
learners.
Learning
Environment
How is the learning environment and
the use of tools designed to enhance
authenticity?

Here comes the Learning

Designer Power!
Feedback &
Discussion
What opportunities are provided for
feedback and discussion, resembling
workplace interactions?

Embed feedback into the

activity rather than relying
solely on end-of-course surveys
Collaboration
How does the activity promote
collaboration skills through group
work or partnerships?

Utilize any available

collaboration space, such as a
discussion forum in your LMS.
If you enjoyed these insights,
I'm Mariam Gomaa, an
Instructional Designer and
proud nerd. If you share my
🚀
passion, let's connect on
LinkedIn!