Assessment

To develop as successful learners, children and young people of all ages need to be actively involved in their own assessment. This involvement can take different forms, ranging from conversations with peers about aspects of learning, to more formal discussions with teachers about how to improve their work.

Assessment is at the heart of a successful curriculum and exploiting technology is fundamental to a delivering a successful assessment strategy. One that enables learners to recognise achievement and make progress, and teachers to shape and adapt their teaching to individual needs and aspirations.

We look at some of the tools, systems and materials available under the five key headings below.

Assessing Progress
It requires materials and tools that not only give a snapshot of what children can do but also clearly identify strengths and weaknesses so that they can understand how to progress.

Communication
Technology enables young people to communicate in a variety of different ways. Capturing thinking and understanding through sound, pictures, discussion and conversation often makes it easier for them to express themselves.

Informing Teaching
Good assessment methods provide information in a way that allows teachers to use it to inform their teaching.

Managing Data
It is essential that schools have efficient ways of managing the wealth of data that exists. Data must be secure and safely stored in a way that allows everyone to record and access appropriate information easily and from anywhere.

Reporting
Key information about a child's progress and achievements to parents requires systems that can integrate with each other and provide them with access to the necessary and relevant information.