When we design digital learning opportunities, we often spend most of our effort on designing the right interactions that facilitate learning – learning mechanics. Often, learners actions, captured in user logs, are then used to assess learning outcomes. However, there is a deep philosophical difference in how we act when we learn v. how we act when we are being assessed. We therefore propose to differentiate another type of interaction – assessment mechanics. Unlike learning mechanics, which focus on facilitate learning and are based on learning theoretical considerations, assessment mechanics focus on the measurement of learning outcomes and are based on test theoretical concerns.
Suggested reading about this topic
Plass, J. L., & Homer, B.D. (2011). Learning Mechanics and Assessment Mechanics for Games for Learning. G4LI White Paper 01-2011.