The Applications Card is a formative assessment strategy designed to help learners connect theoretical knowledge to real-world contexts by generating authentic examples of how newly learned concepts can be applied. It promotes deeper learning, intrinsic motivation, and long-term retention by integrating prior and new knowledge. The method involves identifying key concepts, prompting students for practical applications, modeling sample responses, and providing clear timelines and feedback. Suitable across disciplines and learning levels, the strategy allows instructors to gauge the transfer of learning and creativity. However, it requires careful management of time, ethical oversight of responses, and awareness of evaluator bias. Best practices include modeling expectations, categorizing responses, encouraging collaboration, and offering constructive, inclusive feedback to reinforce understanding and showcase creative applications.

License CC BY 2.0

Content
00:00 Intro
00:35 Explanation, Principles, Process
01:52 Contexts for Use
02:31 Examples
03:12 Limitations
04:15 Advantages
05:00 Best Practices – Evaluation
06:10 Best Practices – Implementation
06:46 Providing Feedback
07:40 Summary

References
Angelo, T. A., & Zakrajsek, T. D. (2024). Classroom assessment techniques: Formative feedback tools for college and University Teachers. Jossey Bass.
Bransford, J. D., Brown, A. L., & Cocking, R. R. (Eds.). (2000). How people learn: Brain, mind, experience, and school. National Academies Press.
OpenAI. (2025, October 15). Discipline-specific Applications Card prompts [Generative AI chat]. ChatGPT. https://chatgpt.com/s/t_68f1a5b89c808191a98575bd611615ec
Perkins, D. N., & Salomon, G. (1992). Transfer of learning. In T. Husen & T. N. Postlethwaite (Eds.), International encyclopedia of education (2nd ed., Vol. 2, pp. 6452–6457). Pergamon Press.

Credits
Intro/Outro Music by MakeMusic, A. (n.d.). Good Vibe [Audio track]. Artlist.https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/good-vibe/132112
Production and presentation by Bobbi Lusic, 2025.
Stock images and icons by Microsoft Stock Images.