Why Informal Assessment Prioritizes Observation Over Testing

Why Informal Assessment Prioritizes Observation Over Testing

Observation is a crucial aspect of informal assessment for educators. When it comes to assessing students’ learning progress or abilities, formal testing has always been the go-to method for educators. However, recent studies have shown that informal assessment methods, particularly observation, provide a more holistic view of students’ abilities and progress. Here are some reasons why observation is prioritized over testing in informal assessment.

1. Authentic Assessment

Informal assessments, including observation, provide a more authentic assessment of a student’s abilities. Authentic assessment often involves real-life scenarios or day-to-day activities that students engage in, as opposed to tests that only assess a student’s ability to memorize information. For example, classroom teachers can observe a student’s ability to work with their peers, their social skills, and problem-solving skills during a classroom discussion or group work.

2. Immediate Feedback

The use of observation in informal assessment allows for immediate feedback to be provided to students. Observational assessment allows teachers to interact with the student in real-time, correcting any mistakes or misconceptions as they occur. Through this feedback, students receive more effective support in their learning as compared to tests that only provide feedback after the assessment.

3. Flexibility in Assessment

Observational assessment is often a more flexible form of assessment. Teachers have the flexibility to assess a student’s learning progress through a range of everyday activities. Observation can occur in structured settings such as in the classroom, but it can also be unstructured and spontaneous, such as observing a student during recess or a field trip. This allows teachers to understand the progress of a student’s learning in various contexts and helps create a more comprehensive assessment.

4. Minimizes Stress and Anxiety

Observational assessment is also a less stressful and anxiety-inducing experience for students than testing. Tests often provide a one-time bout of high-stakes assessment that can induce stress in students, whereas observation can occur over an extended period. This approach results in a less anxious and stressful experience for students since they are not subjected to a one-time high-stress assessment.

Conclusion

It is clear that informal assessments prioritize observation over testing for good reason. It provides a more authentic assessment of a student’s abilities, allows for immediate feedback, is more flexible, and minimizes stress and anxiety for students. As educators, a combination of informal and formal assessment methods can help provide a comprehensive understanding of student learning progress. However, it is essential to recognize the benefits of informal assessment methods, particularly observation, in promoting student-centered learning. By prioritizing observation, educators can create meaningful and impactful assessments for their students.

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