What method can be used to assess a student's understanding during a lesson?

• A. By giving them a written test
• B. By asking open-ended questions and observing their problem-solving process
• C. By engaging them in group discussions
• D. By having them summarize the topic

Answer: (B)

Asking open-ended questions and observing a student's problem-solving process provides a dynamic way to assess understanding in real-time during a lesson. This method allows the instructor to gauge not just the final answer the student arrives at, but also their thought processes, approaches, and reasoning. Through this interaction, educators can identify misconceptions, clarify misunderstandings, and provide tailored support as needed. Open-ended questions encourage deeper thinking and enable students to express their understanding of concepts more freely, which can reveal their level of comprehension and confidence.

While other methods like written tests, group discussions, or summarization can also provide insights, they may not capture the nuance of a student’s thinking or engagement as effectively as direct inquiry and observation during a lesson. Written tests assess retention of knowledge but may not reflect a student's immediate understanding or challenges. Group discussions can foster collaboration but might limit individual accountability or insight into personal understanding. Summarizing a topic can indicate comprehension but may depend on how effectively the information was relayed in the first place. Thus, the chosen method prioritizes a more holistic and interactive assessment of learning.