In this episode of the Teacher Fellows Podcast, hosts Ryan Rarick and Lauren Merkley discuss innovative approaches to assessment with guests Anna Bessesen and Eric Evans, two Utah educators. The conversation explores the conventional view of assessment as a finish line and shifts towards understanding assessments as an ongoing dialogue that includes both teachers and students. Despite technical difficulties with Eric's participation, the discussion with Anna continues, delving into the methods that cultivate student engagement, ownership, and deeper learning. Anna shares experiences and practical strategies for incorporating project-based learning, iterative feedback, and student self-assessment in the classroom. The episode emphasizes transparency, clear success criteria, and the value of evolving traditional assessment practices to better support student growth and mastery.
Rethinking Assessment
In this episode of the Teacher Fellows Podcast, hosts Ryan Rarick and Lauren Merkley dive into innovative assessment practices and the importance of rethinking traditional approaches. They are joined by guest Anna Bessesen (and for a short time Eric Evans), experienced educator who shared insights on maximizing student engagement and mastery through project-based learning and self-assessment. Highlighting the shift from summative to formative assessments, the discussion explores how clear success criteria and iterative feedback can transform the learning experience for students. This engaging conversation provides practical strategies and reinforces the philosophy that learning is an ongoing, dynamic process.
00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Banter
00:49 Preview of Today's Topic: Rethinking Assessment
01:29 Meet the Guests: Anna and Eric
02:20 Defining Assessment
03:27 Rethinking Traditional Assessment Methods
07:06 Practical Changes in Assessment Practices
11:49 Teaching Students to Self-Assess
18:09 Time Management and Teacher Tips
19:44 Top Takeaways and Conclusion
GUESTS ON EPISODE:
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: