Assessment & Reflection in an Inquiry Classroom

In every classroom, assessment and reflection will and should vary. When it comes to an inquiry classroom, this is no different. I have written about assessment and reflection in the past on my blog and have gone into some detail about the difference between PROCESS and PRODUCT.

“The process of differentiating instruction for students depends on the ongoing use of assessment to gather information about where students are in their learning and about their readiness, interests and learning preferences”. (Reach Every Student Through Differentiated Instruction)

When we look at assessment strategies and tools in the inquiry classroom, differentiation is vital to ensure student agency. If teachers allow for choice and variation when it comes to self & peer assessment and reflection, learners are not only able to assess their knowledge building but also their skill development.

In my blog post "Focus on the learning PROCESS, Not the Product" I wrote about the Triangulation of data and how Assessment is made up of 3 components:

1. Conversations

2. Observations

3. Products

This is, in my opinion, where inquiry teachers need to take a step back and think about how they are using assessment in their classrooms.

So, where do you start? How do you ensure student agency is at the forefront of all assessment strategies and tools you put in practice? And finally, WHERE CAN YOU GET THESE TOOLS?

Things we need to remember about assessment in an inquiry classroom:

1. Assessment is ongoing and should not only be conducted at the "end" of learning (Assessment for learning, Assessment as learning, Assessment of learning)

2. Reflection plays a considerable role in assessment because it develops reflective thinking skills, self-awareness and promotes ongoing evaluation and goal setting.

If you are still wondering where you can go to learn more about assessment and reflection in the inquiry classroom, this is the perfect time for me to share my Instagram friend Susan with you!

Susan is an international teacher, who has taught in 5 different countries! Susan believes in the inquiry-based process of learning and has taught mostly within the International Baccalaureate’s Primary Years Programme. She has a blog pypteachingtools.com, where she shares so many tips, resources and ideas around inquiry-based learning. If you are looking for more learning on assessment and reflection in the inquiry classroom check these blog posts from her website.

• Reflection in the IB PYP- A Journal for Self Discovery

• Assessment Strategies for the IB PYP

On Susan's blog, she goes into detail about some of the benefits of reflection such as goal setting, critical thinking and so much more. She also shares how different assessment strategies can transform your inquiry classroom. Check it out! You won't be disappointed!

- Lidia