Unlocking Assessment

Assessment is a prime concern for everyone involved with education, and its profile has never been higher. Unlocking Assessment explores the values, principles, research and theories that underpin our understanding of assessment, encouraging an enquiring and reflective approach to practice.In Unlocking Assessment , leading figures including Margaret Carr, Mary Jane Drummond, Lorna Earl, Wynne Harlen, Mary James and Dylan Wiliam explore key issues, draw on relevant research and provide practical suggestions. This engaging book is structured in three sections: Part I explores the big picture of assessment including how we think about learning and how we should be preparing young people to cope with complex situations and an unknown future. Part II focuses on assessment for learning, paying particular attention to feedback and pupil self-assessment. It looks at the use of assessment information to support learning and teaching. Part III discusses three topical issues: quality in assessment and consequent decision-making; the relationship between formative and summative assessment including issues about teachers' judgements; and consideration of the present and future role of technology in assessment. Each chapter includes a thought-provoking question or statement and points for reflection to aid individual thinking about practice and prompt group discussion. Suggestions for further reading and comprehensive references also make it an invaluable resource. Education/Teacher EducationSwaffield, Sue is the author of 'Unlocking Assessment' with ISBN 9780415453134 and ISBN 0415453135.