A method used to measure conceptual understanding (usually in mathematics) that does not require traditional scoring rubrics. Comparative judgement is based off the psychological principle “that humans are better at comparing two objects against one another than they are at comparing one object against specified criteria.”

Comparative Judgement

Understanding the deep relationships between pieces of information and the principles of their domain

Michigan State University

Understanding objects and events in the world and the ability make inferences about them. 

Conceptual Knowledge 

Bisson, MJ., Gilmore, C., Inglis, M. et al. Measuring Conceptual Understanding Using Comparative Judgement. Int. J. Res. Undergrad. Math. Ed. 2, 141–164 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40753-016-0024-3

Measuring Conceptual Understanding Using Comparative Judgement

A theory is a broad explanatory framework that accounts for larger bodies of data and interprets phenomena. In psychological research, working with theories is a basic, essential ingredient, serving as the foundation from which specific hypotheses are derived and tested. Crucially, theories can be supported by evidence but can never be definitively proved, and disconfirming a single hypothesis does not necessarily mean that the broader theory has been disproved.

Theory

Concepts are mental categories used to group and organize various types of information, such as linguistic data, images, ideas, and memories. They function as cognitive structures or 'big ideas' that are formed by observing, categorizing, and combining specific details. This organizational system allows the mind to perceive relationships between different elements of experience, making information more organized and accessible. Concepts are influenced by semantic memory and are integral to every aspect of life, being particularly noticeable in educational settings where they are explicitly taught.

Concept

Refers to the number of different dimensions of meaning that a person has available within his or her system of meaning for a certain topic. Can be assessed by counting the number of different constructs used in a judgement. 

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