Student Assessments
Thaleisha Griffin
The Purpose of Assessment
Before administering your next assessment, stop and ask yourself, "what is my purpose for this assessment". Lopez (2013), notes "assessment is not about you as a teacher; it is about your students" (p.97). The sole purpose of assessment is to collect and gather artifacts and information that enhances student's academic success. Lopez's and my beliefs align with one another. As a teacher, I will encourage and allow students to be actively involved in the assessment process. This action helps the students take responsibility for their learning.
No Excuses University's Four Questions to Consider When Planning Assessment
- Why are you participating in the assessments?
- Can you share in explicit detail the value that you find in each assessment?
- Do you participate in assessments that you find no value in for students?
- Are you using an assessment you have no idea how to deliver, but are afraid to ask help with? (ch. 9)
Keeping these four questions in mind will greatly benefit the student's overall academic success and enhance their 21st century skills. Lopez's four questions helps to build a partnership between students and teachers. Students should feel comfortable, and not be afraid or intimidated.
Reference:
Lopez, D. (2013). No excuses university: How six exceptional systems are revolutionizing our schools 2nd ed. Turnaround Schools Publications.