Which activities are effective for assessing knowledge while building relationships with students?

Debates and discussions are particularly effective for assessing knowledge while also building relationships with students because they foster interactive and dynamic environments that encourage open communication. In these settings, students are not only able to express their understanding of the material but can also engage with their peers' ideas and perspectives. This interaction can help to create a sense of community and trust, as students learn to listen to one another and respect differing viewpoints.

Moreover, debates and discussions allow teachers to observe students' critical thinking and reasoning skills in real time, providing insight into their understanding and engagement with the content. This format promotes collaboration and can deepen the teacher-student relationship as the teacher acts as a facilitator, guiding the conversation and encouraging participation from all students. The social aspect of these activities can build a classroom culture that values participation and inclusivity, ultimately enhancing both the learning experience and relationships within the classroom.

In contrast, standardized tests, individual worksheets, and online multiple-choice questions primarily focus on measuring knowledge in isolated ways, often lacking the interactive element that fosters relationship-building. These methods may not encourage the same level of engagement, collaboration, or discussion among students, making them less effective for the dual purpose of assessment and relationship development.