Assessment and Data

Overview

In this unit pre-service teachers critically evaluate the assessment principles, types and purpose and develop expertise in using and interpreting different types of data in secondary school contexts. The unit explores teachers’ use of data from state, national and global perspectives and introduces basic data terminology, practices and strategies. Using data informed practices, pre-service teachers examine issues related to validity and reliability of assessment and examine key ethical issues confronting education policy makers related to assessment adjustments. Working in collaboration, pre-service teachers explore moderation processes, create record-keeping tools, interpret tabular and graphic data, and communicate assessment data through digital reporting.

Unit learning outcomes

Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:

• Critically evaluate the purposes and types of data used by schools and broader educational bodies, at the state, national and global levels
• Evaluate and represent local and global issues associated with assessment and the ethical use of data
• Analyse and interpret assessment data to make informed judgments on student learning and well-being and to provide purposeful feedback and reports
• Design valid, reliable and effective test items and record-keeping
• Critically examine the role of moderation to make comparable judgments of student learning that effectively integrate discipline specific knowledge

Teaching methods

Hawthorn

Assessment

Content

• Big data, e.g. NAPLAN, PISA
• Contexts for assessment and reporting
• Principles of assessment for learning
• The importance and functions of moderation
• Providing feedback to enhance learning
• Strategies for assessing student learning including peer and self-assessment
• Recording and assessment
• Reporting achievement
• Data and planning