Assessment for learning: introduction

What is assessment for learning?

Assessment for learning focuses on the gap between where a learner is in their learning, and where they need to be – the desired goal. This can be achieved through processes such as sharing criteria with learners, effective questioning and feedback. 

Black and Wiliam define assessment for learning as 'all those activities undertaken by teachers and/or by their students, which provide information to be used as feedback to modify the teaching and learning activities in which they are engaged'.

The Big Ideas

Learners learn best when ...

• they understand clearly what they are trying to learn, and what is expected of them
• they are given feedback about the quality of their work and what they can do to make it better
• they are given advice about how to go about making improvements
• they are fully involved in deciding what needs to be done next, and who can give them help if they need it

These 'big ideas' can be found within the four key features on the assessment for learning side of the AifL triangle.