Assess the process, not just the prototype

Learning goal

Evaluate understanding, collaboration and iteration alongside the finished project.

What you’ll need

• Student journals or design notes
• A simple observation sheet
• Time for student explanation

The activity

1. Choose a small set of learning goals before the activity. Include a technical concept and a process skill.
2. Observe how students explain decisions, share tasks and respond to unexpected results.
3. Ask groups to demonstrate one test and describe an improvement made from evidence.
4. Provide specific feedback: one strength, one question and one achievable next step.

Pause and reflect

• Can the student explain why the system behaves as it does?
• Does the group use test results to improve its work?
• What can the student try independently next time?

Take it further

Invite students to help write a project rubric using examples from their own work.