Module+5+Reflections

**This week I decided to forgo the discussion topic and create my own. I was inspired by the articles addressing Assessment FOR Learning so thought I would spend time reflecting on this process.**
Assessment FOR Learning is when students learn through the participation in an assignment, or an activity or project used as an assessment. By providing students clear instructions, descriptions, and examples they are able to learn how to self assess and improve the quality of their work. This type of assessment has been linked to increased student learning and motivation. The article, Classroom Assessment For Learning by Steven Chappuis and Richard Stiggins, describes the benefits of the teaching and assessment method; as well the importance of student involved assessment, feedback, and the skills necessary for scaffolding students through self assessment.
 * Description: **

The two articles provided for Module 5 which discussed Assessment for learning were powerful. I spent the week and a half prior to reading these articles trying to accurately word in a grant that I wanted my students to be able to deepen and demonstrate their knowledge simultaneously. I was in a state of excited awe that the content in this module was able to read my mind about what I picture for my students.
 * Impact:**

I related well to the feedback portion, as my district is big on descriptive feedback, calling it "the biggest indicator for success". I enjoyed the reminder of having students look at anonymous work samples to improve their own work. I have done this before, but not consistently enough to make a life long impact on their ability to revise their own documents.

I plan to keep giving descriptive feedback to scaffold students and make a much more concentrated effort to provide student examples when introducing an assignment. As I reflect, I can't believe that I don't do this more often-as I am such a visual learner. This is a process that can be implemented without access to digital tools, so I am going to start now so it will be a habit by the time my students begin participating in 21st century learning.
 * Intent:**

I am also going to feel more confident about the outcome measures returned from assessments for learning. Sometimes I waiver on the accountability of the measure because the students are receiving guidance and feedback throughout the process. I wonder if what I would say to my boss if she asked if this project was a true indicator of a student's ability. After reading these articles I know can answer that question confidently with a resounding, YES!