Understanding Assessment
In the National Curriculum Statement (NCS) assessment is one of the most
powerful tools for promoting effective learning. Hence assessment is regarded
as an integral part of teaching and learning
INTERRELATIONSHIP AMONG DIFFERENT ASPECTS OF THE LEARNING
PROCESS
LEARNING
OUTCOMES
LEARNING ASSESSMENT
EXPERIENCE PROCEDURES
This structure implies that assessment is:
ongoing
interconnected
integrated
Assessment Defined
Assessment has various definitions by various authors depending on the purpose
and focus. Below are some examples of assessment definition:
“A planned process of gathering information about the performance of learners
measured against the intended outcomes. Assessment requires clearly defined
criteria and a variety of strategies to allow for constructive feedback to all
relevant stakeholders”.
“Assessment involves gathering and interpreting information about a learner’s
performance to determine the mastery towards defined learning outcomes or
standards”.
Purposes of assessment
To assess whether a lesson’s objectives has been achieved.
To improve the quality teaching.
To identify pupils’ knowledge, skills and attitudes.
To improve pupils’ achievements.
To provide a statement of current attainment.
To provide feedback with regard to pupils’ progress.
Assessment helps various stakeholders to monitor their progress:
Learners monitor their achievement levels.
Teachers monitor the effectiveness and progress of their
teaching.
Schools monitor its achievement targets.
The Department of Education monitors the general effectiveness
of the system.