Assessment for learning is an essential part of a child’s education as it defines whether or not the objectives of teaching are being met, assessments affects decisions about grades, the educational needs of children, and in some cases funding. Assessment for learning is a significant way to raise a pupil’s academic achievement and is centered on the belief that in order for children to progress in school then they must understand the purpose of their learning, where they are in relation to this purpose and how they can achieve their goals.
Assessments will help a pupil reflect on their own development which in turn will help them recognize and appreciate their own strengths and define weak points as well as develop insight into themselves as students. If a child is given the opportunity to discuss their learning either with a teacher or one of their peers then they will develop a deeper understanding of their learning which can build confidence and motivate them as students.
Effective assessment will identify the individual educational needs of all children as well as inform them about their specific performances and achievements, this will then allow teachers to utilize approaches that are personalized to the needs of a child. Assessment can be used not only to measure learning but also to promote learning by teaching children how to ask questions as well as answering them, by emphasizing to a child that it is acceptable to ‘Have a go’ and that by giving the wrong answer it is still learning.
