Why do we assess?

There are many reasons such as, (a) build on known content, (b) correct unknown content, (c) give constructive feedback and (d) academic achievements. But assessment is classified in different ways in an overarching way.        

Assessment for Learning?

AFL assesses comprehension of concepts during the teaching and learning process (Bennett, 2017).

One of the ways my class does it is by keeping journals or learning logs (Rethinking…, 2006). These are student designed and driven journals of their process of learning. This helps students and hence the teachers understand on the go the level of learning achieved in the students. It also helps in creating a deeper learning of their own ways of thinking. As a teacher I read them to understand gaps in learning of my kids and also give constructive feedback as and when possible. Students who have been with me for long find it easy to journal as there is a comfort zone. New students often find it hard till they settle with me in a relationship. For the new ones, I let them write what they feel like. It may be about the subject or else.

It is interesting how the same type of assessment can be used in multiple ways.?

The journal or learning log can also be used for assessment as learning. Assessment as learning drives deeper questioning in the minds of the students. I would use the journal in personal way for them where they won’t be assessed or read by me. It is a small space of self-reflection. They are free to have it looked up by a peer, teacher or anyone else they feel safe with. The autonomy exists to design it the way they like. I would use this for higher ability kids who need a stronger cognitive challenge to sustain their curiosity.