
Technology Based Assessment
How do you check for understanding in your classroom? When we use formative assessment strategies, we’re on a fact-finding mission. As educators, we work to figure out who understands the teaching point of a lesson, who has mastered a new concept, who needs extra help. Formative assessment happens naturally as we walk around the room and listen in on student conversations or examine their classwork after the bell rings.

Assessment is universally recognised as one of the most important – and powerful – elements of an educational experience. It is also seen as one of the hardest to reform. However, there is an increasingly demonstrated need for assessment reform, particularly if it is to keep up with other theoretical, cultural and technological developments affecting teaching and learning. Current assessment methods, especially the heavy emphasis and priority afforded to highstakes summative assessment, are often described as outdated, ineffective and at worst damaging
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An example of understandings and essential questions related to this goal is suggested in the table below.
