Using an annotated bibliography to assess learning
An annotated bibliography is a selected list of sources (texts, primary sources and/or internet sites) reported in an agreed referencing convention and accompanied by a short summary or analysis.
The main focus is not to provide a list of sources but to demonstrate an understanding of these sources.
Annotated bibliographies can be a useful starting point for a literature review, and may be more suited to formatively assessed components within an assessment strategy.
AI will become increasingly adept at supporting the creation of descriptive and analytical annotated bibliographies.
This sort of activity presents good opportunities for students to develop skills in working with AI to develop research skills, where the 'added human value' of evaluative judgement or selection will be the focus of assessment.
Different types of annotated bibliographies
There are two main types of annotated bibliography depending on their purpose and function.
A descriptive or informative annotated bibliography usually summarises a source, describes its distinctive features and usefulness for researching a particular topic or question.
It also describes the author's main arguments and conclusions without making an evaluative judgement on what the author says.
An analytical or critical annotated bibliography not only summarises the material but it analyses the author’s argument, examines the strengths and weaknesses of what is presented, and considers the applicability of the author's conclusions to the research being conducted.