"Navigating innovation and equity in writing assessment"

Abstract

The 2024 Tools & Technology forum underscores the significant role of emerging writing technologies in shaping writing assessment practices post-COVID-19, emphasizing the necessity of ensuring that these innovations uphold core principles of validity, fairness, and equity. AI-driven tools offer promising improvements but also require careful consideration to ensure that they reflect writing constructs, align with educational goals, and promote equitable assessment practices. Validity is explored through dimensions such as construct, content, and consequential validity, raising questions about how assessment tools may capture the complexity of writing and their broader impacts on educational stakeholders. Fairness in writing assessment is examined with regard to cultural responsiveness and accessibility, and how assessment tools may be designed to accommodate various student needs. Equity extends these considerations by addressing systemic inequities and promoting assessment practices that support diverse learning styles and reduce barriers for marginalized students. The reviews of three assessment tools—PERSUADE 2.0, EvaluMate, and a web application for systematic review writing—illustrate how innovations can support valid, fair, and equitable writing assessments across educational contexts. The forum emphasizes the importance of ongoing dialogue and adaptation to create inclusive and just educational experiences.