Assessment is inextricably linked with learning and teaching, and its profile in British schools has never been higher. Recently the value and importance of formative assessment in supporting learning and teaching has also become widely recognised.
Although assessment is a prime concern of anyone involved in education it remains a highly complex field where much controversy and misunderstanding abounds.
This book explores the values, principles, research and theories that underpin our understanding and practice of assessment. It also provides practical suggestions and examples, and addresses some key points about the future development of assessment. The book makes accessible complex but crucial ideas and issues, so that teachers can be more confident and proactive in shaping assessment in their classrooms, in ways that support learning and avoid unintentional harmful consequences.
Assessment is a prime concern for everyone involved with education. Unlocking Assessment explores the values, principles, research and theories that underpin our understanding of assessment, encouraging an enquiring and reflective approach to practice.
Part 1: Assessment, Values, Learning and Agency 1. Assessment and Values: a Close and Necessary relationship 2. Assessment and Learning 3. Can Assessment Unlock and Open the Doors to Resourcefulness and Agency? Part 2: Assessment for Learning 4. Feedback - the Central Process in Assessment for Learning 5. Questioning and Dialogue 6. Getting to the Core of Learning: Using Assessment for Self-Monitoring and Self-regulation 7. Understanding and Using Assessment Data Part 3: Assessment Issues 8. Quality in Assessment 9. Trusting Teachers' Judgements 10. Technology in the Service of 21st Century Learning and Assessment. Continuing the Exploration