In this course, you will develop a clear understanding of what assessment for learning is and why it plays such an important role in teaching and learning. You will explore how assessment for learning differs from assessment of learning and why this distinction matters in everyday practice.
As the course progresses, you will be introduced to the five components of assessment for learning identified by Dylan Wiliam. These components provide a strong foundation for understanding how assessment can be used to support learning, check understanding, and promote deeper thinking.
This course is structured across five modules.
Module One
This module explores what assessment for learning is. You will reflect on prior knowledge, become familiar with key terminology, and examine how assessment for learning differs from assessment of learning.
Module Two
This module focuses on sharing learning intentions or outcomes and identifying success criteria. These ideas are linked to Dylan Wiliam’s five strategies, with consideration given to common pitfalls to avoid.
Module Three
This module explores the use of effective questioning to support assessment for learning. You will examine how well-designed questions can be used to check understanding and promote thinking among learners.
Module Four
This module introduces the concept of activating learners. It unpacks what this means in practice and why learner engagement is central to effective assessment for learning.
Module Five
This module draws together key ideas from the course, supporting reflection on how assessment for learning strategies can be applied consistently and effectively in teaching practice.
