After this practicum and university studies this semester my knowledge and perception of assessment has changed. The following is a synopsis of the learning I have gained through my practical and theoretical experiences.
- There is a vast array of techniques when assessing students.
- Assessment, like planning, should always consider student diversification.
- When assessing it is important to remain transparent to students. This involves showing rubrics, curriculum outcomes and expressing clear goals and expectations. This clarity will result in higher levels of student success.
- For teacher clarity and record keeping it is important to record all results of assessment. Anecdotal notes, samples and observation notes are useful and important for reporting information to parents, caregivers and school leadership.
- Assessment can be described as a social practice. This can have many interpretations: teachers working together, students working together and students and teachers working together.
- Formative and summative assessment are important for feedback and learning purposes.
- An educator should always be clear in their goals and outcomes of student achievement
- Moderation in composite classes can be difficult. There should be a moderation process where levels are grouped and compared for consistency.
- Students need timely and constructive feedback to grow and improve.
- Teachers need to create authentic assessment opportunities. This includes assessment that considers context, relevance and engagement rather than only curriculum links.