Work in progress - use of a system for evaluation of learning and formative feedback in fluid mechanics

In mechanical engineering at the University of Wisconsin, we have been experimenting with approaches to directly assess student performance as a means of providing evidence for improving learning. Based on our experiences using concept inventories to assess student understanding in the thermal science area, we developed a new formative assessment tool that provides feedback to the students and the instructor. Directed feedback is provided to the students to allow them to correct their misunderstandings prior to summative assessment. Additionally, the tools contain redundancy in the topics which allows more precise measurement of understanding. We plan to incorporate these assessment tools into a course management system.