Abstract. Assessment can be viewed as a way to measure the process, the progress, and the product of learning. However, it is a complex concept within the teaching-learning process especially if it is implemented with the absence of face-to-face instruction. As observed, faculty members who are implementing modular distance learning (MDL) modality are confronted with the challenges of proper utilization of authentic assessment tools in Agriculture. Hence, this study sought the utilization of authentic assessment in Agriculture by Faculty members of state colleges in Northern Mindanao, Philippines in the academic year 2020-2021 and 2021-2022. This study employed a mixed-method research design to gather both quantitative and qualitative data from 139 participants who were given survey questionnaires in digital and print format. A focus group discussion (FGD) of 10 randomly selected participants was conducted virtually to find similarities in the participants’ opinions. Results revealed that the faculty members had positive perceptions of authentic assessment. However, most of them faced several challenges in the process of utilizing the assessment tools in terms of preparation, delivery, and evaluation. These challenges were used as a basis for the formulation of a handbook of authentic assessment.

Keywords: Authentic assessment; Modular distance learning; Instructional materials development; Agriculture