Formative assessment is a continuous process suited to a range of subjects and grade levels. This assessment model allows teachers and students to keep learning moving forward because it enables the teacher to see learning progressions, set goals, engage students in self-assessment and self-management, and measure success criteria in real-time. With formative assessment, teachers can make calculated, personalized adjustments to ensure that their students are reaching their full potential. Formative assessment can also be referred to as a feedback loop because interdependent elements such as learning goals, motivation, self-regulation, and self-assessment all work together to allow the student to meet their intended goals.
By using specific learning goals and success criteria within every lesson, students become integral to the assessment and evaluation procedures to close the gap between what students know now and where their teacher wants them to be at the end of the lesson or unit. Teachers accomplish this by embedding assessment opportunities throughout the curriculum and interactions within the classroom. Formative assessment is different from merely assigning grades and reporting student achievements at the end of a term. Students receive ongoing descriptive feedback and analysis of tasks and classwork throughout the learning process.
This course introduces K-12 educators to the knowledge and skills necessary to implement and maintain a successful formative assessment program. Guided by the latest research and proven methods, educators will develop the required skills to implement a successful student-centered formative assessment process across all grade levels. K-12 educators will learn how to map out learning progressions, select assessment strategies to provide quality feedback, engage students in self-assessment and self-management, remain mindful of individual social and emotional learning needs, and much more.