Assessment is for Learning – more than 2 stars and a wish

Assessment for Learning (formative assessment) has, according to the independent evaluation by the University of London, Institute of Education, had an impact in Scottish classrooms: ‘Teachers were enthusiastic, well motivated, reported changes in their understanding of formative assessment and their pedagogical and assessment practices. They reported that the project had made a substantial contribution to their personal and professional development.’

Certainly the widespread use of traffic lighting, the sharing of learning intentions and the presence of Walt and Wilf on classroom walls would appear to provide further evidence of the way that teachers have embraced the ideas within formative assessment. This  session attempts to extend thinking about the Assessment is for Learning Programme beyond formative assessment The seminar will ask delegates to consider  how they can use their practice in Assessment for Learning as a basis for  the development of the two other key areas within  the Programme:

Assessment as Learning and Assessment of Learning

The seminar will conclude by asking delegates to reflect on the extent to which the development of all three areas of the AifL Programme can provide a springboard that will enable pupils to become successful learners, confident individuals, responsible citizens and effective contributors.

Norman Emerson, LTS

Norman Emerson has over 26 years experience in primary and secondary schools in Cumbernauld, Dundee and Glasgow. Norman has worked as a class and subject teacher and was Principal Teacher-Support for Learning before being appointed to the post of Assistant Head in a large Glasgow secondary school.

In 2002, Norman was appointed to the post of Principal Education Officer to lead a team of Development Officers within Learning and Teaching Scotland in taking forward the Assessment is for Learning Programme.