Seven Strategies of Assessment FOR Learning, Part 1

“Assessment literate educators simply improve on current practices, while giving some new practices a try.”

Incorporating research-based assessment strategies into the constraints of the classroom is a challenge. Jan Chappuis’ Seven Strategies of Assessment for Learning, is a practical approach we can all take to overcome that challenge. Dr. Reddick will begin with the first four strategies using the guiding questions:

Where am I going?
Where am I now?

These questions focus on the clear communication of learning objectives and expectations. We know that clear communication is essential in the classroom. It is perhaps even more critical in a virtual learning environment.

Visualize

From the strategies shared by Dr. Reddick, consider the following for this new virtual learning environment:

Has it been clear to you that students are focusing more on WHAT they need to complete, rather than WHY you are doing this activity together? Can learning goals be communicated more effectively?
Has student work often missed the target or fallen below past expectations in terms of quality or completeness? Can good/poor models clarify these expectations?
Have students been successful in applying feedback to improve their learning?

We’ve previously taken a look at how incorporating small group and one-on-one meetings with students is beneficial in developing the relationship central to successful teaching and learning. Consider how incorporating coaching, feedback, and goal setting into those small conversations may impact the virtual learning experience for both your students and you.