Assessment Learning Practices Quiz

Assessment Learning

Assessment learning is a pedagogical approach that supports learners in understanding what expert performance looks like, and then assists them in developing the necessary skills to achieve this level of proficiency. In secondary schools, assessment learning practices include everyday classroom activities such as clarifying learning intentions, providing feedback, and facilitating peer- and self-assessment (Black and Wiliam, 1998; Klenowski, 2001). These practices aim to help students understand what they are expected to learn, how they are progressing, and how they can improve their learning.

Formative Assessment

Formative assessment is a continuous process that occurs throughout a course, providing ongoing feedback and evaluation of student performance. It is designed to support learning by encouraging students to engage with the subject matter and become familiar with the content they are learning (Saifi et al., 2011; Sambell et al., 2013). Effective formative assessment requires active participation from both the student and the teacher, resulting in deeper thinking and long-term retention of learned concepts (McCoy, 2013).

Assessment for Learning (AfL)

Assessment for learning (AfL) is a specific approach that emphasizes the use of assessment as a tool for learning, rather than solely for evaluation or certification purposes. When AfL practices are successful, they overlap, as the formative and summative functions of assessment should complement each other to support student learning (Carless, 2015; Norton et al., 2013).

Common AfL practices include clarifying learning intentions, providing clear success criteria, gathering evidence of progress, giving feedback, and facilitating peer- and self-assessment (Black and Wiliam, 1998). These practices aim to help students understand what they are expected to learn, how they are progressing, and how they can improve their learning.

Accessibility in Assessment for Learning

Accessibility in assessment for learning is crucial for ensuring that all students, including those with language and attentional difficulties, can benefit from AfL practices. This involves designing assessment tasks and criteria that are clear and inclusive, as well as providing ongoing inquiry-based professional learning opportunities for teachers to refine their AfL practices (Graham et al., 2018).

The Role of Assessment in Learning

Assessment plays a vital role in the learning process, providing students with valuable feedback on their progress and helping them to understand the expectations for their learning. By focusing on assessment for learning rather than assessment of learning, educators can create a more supportive and effective learning environment (Duncan and Buskirk-Cohen, 2011; Gilles et al., 2011; Postareff et al., 2012).

Conclusion

Assessment learning is an essential component of effective teaching and learning, as it provides students with the necessary feedback and guidance to improve their learning and achieve their full potential. By incorporating assessment learning practices into classrooms, educators can support student learning and promote a more inclusive and accessible learning environment.