Field Study # 1
Embedded Assessment in ADST
Focus and Rationale:
My rationale for this field study was to gain a better understanding of my assessment practices and determine if my assessment methodology supported learning in meaningful ways, helping students become more self-directed learners as they engage with the Applied Design Skills and Technology (ADST) curriculum. During this inquiry, I wanted to uncover what skills or capacities are relevant to assess in ADST and develop new methods for assessing student progress that in turn elicits further skill development and improves the learning outcomes for those I teach. I also wanted to learn effective ways for putting students at the center of their learning and the assessment process.
Inquiry Questions Pursued:
How can I incorporate embedded assessment practices in the Applied Design Skills and Technology (ADST) curriculum to increase student voice, agency, and participation? What skills are important to assess in ADST? How exactly does one go about painting a robust picture of maker learning through assessment? How can I put students at the center of their learning and the assessment process? Does my choice of assessment capture student voice? Do my assessment practices get students to take ownership of their learning and encourage them to grow as learners?
Feedback
“Crystal, the depth of your exploration into embedded assessment in ADST is really ground breaking research and I hope you share this far and wide. I know I am very curious to read the results of this inquiry. I really appreciate your desire to develop a safe and student centered environment. This will ensure that the student reflections are authentic and meaningful. I am interested in why oral, visual, and written assessments are preferred. Listening to student feedback and adapting our assessment processes accordingly will be so helpful for uplifting student learning and our understanding of what they are gaining from the ADST process. Congratulations on completing an incredibly detailed and comprehensive field study. You have put so much into this. I look forward to reading your written work.” ~ Kelly Kent, Simon Fraser University, Program Mentor, May 8, 2023.
Feedback
“Congratulations on completing your first field study Crystal. This is valuable work that is very important to the development of ADST learning in schools. I love how responsive you are with the quality of the assessment from your students. The meaningful inclusion of ELL and students with learning needs in the assessment process is necessary in order to fully capture the strength of their learning. I like that you adapted by including photos, stickers, and video to "capture learning moments. That visual assessment is inclusive and meaningful is an important observation. Using what was working in your adapted assessment strategy that included stickers for student led conferences was a break through moment in your study. This is excellent work and I am looking forward to the analysis of the next questions you have for your upcoming field studies. Thank you for all of your hard work and insights, this was a very interesting read.” ~ Kelly Kent, Simon Fraser University Program Mentor, May 22, 2023.