How can self-assessment promote student ownership of learning?

1 Benefits of self-assessment

Self-assessment can have many benefits for students, such as increasing their motivation and engagement by allowing them to select their own learning goals and track their progress. Furthermore, it can help enhance their metacognition and self-regulation skills by encouraging them to reflect on their learning processes and identify areas for improvement. Additionally, self-assessment can bolster their critical thinking and problem-solving skills by prompting them to evaluate their performance, compare it with the criteria and standards, and seek feedback. Moreover, it can improve their confidence and self-efficacy by cultivating a sense of autonomy, competence, and ownership in their learning.

3 Strategies for self-assessment

To maximize the benefits of self-assessment and overcome any challenges, you can implement some effective strategies. Start by providing clear and specific learning objectives, criteria, and standards for reference. Model and teach students how to use self-assessment tools, such as rubrics or checklists. Scaffold and differentiate activities based on students' readiness, interests, and preferences. Give timely and constructive feedback on their results, and guide them to set realistic goals for improvement. Encourage collaboration and communication with peers and teachers during the self-assessment process to create a supportive learning environment.

4 Technology for self-assessment

Educational technology can be a powerful tool for facilitating and enhancing self-assessment in the classroom. For example, digital platforms and tools, such as Google Forms or Quizlet, can create and administer online quizzes and surveys that provide immediate and personalized feedback to students. Digital portfolios and e-portfolios, such as Seesaw or WordPress, can collect and showcase students’ work and achievements, allowing them to reflect on their learning progress and goals. Digital rubrics and feedback tools, such as Google Classroom or Turnitin, can help students evaluate their work and performance, as well as receive feedback from peers and teachers. Additionally, digital badges and gamification elements, like ClassDojo or Duolingo, can motivate and reward students for their self-assessment efforts.

5 Tips for self-assessment

To make self-assessment a meaningful and effective learning experience for your students, you should introduce and explain the purpose and benefits of self-assessment. Additionally, involve them in the planning and design of the self-assessment activities and tools. It's important to align the activities and tools with the learning objectives, criteria, and standards to make them relevant and authentic for your students. Provide frequent and varied opportunities for self-assessment throughout the learning process, integrating them with instruction and assessment. Monitor and support your students' self-assessment process, providing them with constructive feedback and guidance. Lastly, review and evaluate the effectiveness of the activities and tools, seeking feedback from your students for improvement.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?