Debbie’s Blog for K12 Learning 2.0

I selected the presentation entitled “Prove It Keynote – Asking Bigger Questions about Assessment“.  I really enjoyed hearing the main points of this thought-provoking presentation and reading the relevant responses on Gardner Campbell’s blog.  The presentation deals with perspectives and reflections on specific indicators for deep learning, how to best create quantitative and qualitative assessments, and if/how students should be involved in the assessment process.  A student’s overall ENGAGEMENT in the learning process is vital to his/her potential for deep learning.  I learned that, in addition to being involved in the process and goals of a project, students should have the opportunity to take ownership in the assessment process as well.  This encourages them to work more to their potential.  Students can take ownership of assessment in a number of ways – from determining the criteria, to designing curriculum, to developing a rubric, to choosing the type of product or presentation to demonstrate their learning.  Rubrics facilitate constant self-assessment because students can correct mistakes as they go, which further reinforces learning.  When educators involve students in the assessment, this type of collaboration allows the student to be empowered and more actively connected in their learning.   As a result of having attended this presentation, I speculate that I will be applying many of these principles when I resume teaching.