Supporting Diverse Learners with More Reliable, Formative Assessments

Teachers can support diverse learners with more reliable formative assessments by employing strategies that are inclusive, responsive, and tailored to the individual needs of each student.  Crucially, an intentional, caring, optimistic, respectful, and trustworthy (ICORT) mindset (Purkey & Novak, 2016; Anderson, 2021) can significantly enhance the reliability of assessments for diverse learners. An ICORT Mindset.can foster a positive and supportive learning environment where diverse learners feel valued, respected, and motivated to engage in assessments. When students feel cared for and respected, they are more likely to approach assessments with confidence and enthusiasm, leading to more reliable outcomes.

A caring and respectful mindset recognizes the unique strengths, challenges, and backgrounds of each learner. Educators with an ICORT mindset are more inclined to use diverse assessment methods that accommodate different learning styles, abilities, and cultural backgrounds.  This thereby increases the potential for an assessment to be fair and equitable for all students.

Let’s agree that trust is essential for accurate assessment outcomes. When students trust their educators and believe that assessments are designed to support their learning rather than simply judge their performance, they are more likely to engage authentically and provide accurate responses. An ICORT mindset fosters trust and rapport between educators and learners, which enhances the reliability of assessment results.

An optimistic mindset encourages a belief in the potential for growth and improvement. Educators with an ICORT mindset emphasize the value of learning from mistakes and setbacks, rather than viewing assessments as measures of fixed ability. This promotes a Growth Mindset (Dweck, 2014) among students, leading to more accurate assessments that reflect their true potential and progress over time.

Trustworthy, formative assessment practices involve clear communication and transparency about assessment objectives, criteria, and expectations. Educators with an ICORT mindset prioritize open and honest communication with students, ensuring that they understand the purpose of assessments and how their performance will be evaluated. Clear guidelines and feedback contribute to more reliable assessments by reducing ambiguity and confusion.

A respectful mindset acknowledges and challenges biases and stereotypes that may impact assessment outcomes. This is particularly impactful for diverse learners. Educators with an ICORT mindset actively strive to minimize bias in assessment design, administration, and evaluation, ensuring that assessments accurately reflect students' knowledge, skills, and abilities regardless of their background or identity.

By cultivating an intentional, caring, optimistic, respectful, and trustworthy mindset, educators can create a supportive learning environment.  Therefore, diverse learners are more likely to feel valued, motivated, and empowered to demonstrate their true abilities. This, in turn, leads to more reliable assessments that provide meaningful insights into students' learning and growth.

How can an ICORT-minded teacher support diverse learners through more reliable, formative assessment processes? There are strategies that are inclusive, responsive, and tailored to the individual needs of diverse learners.  For instance, teachers can:

·     Use multiple assessment methods whereby a variety of assessment methods are employed to accommodate diverse learning styles and preferences.

o   These might include written assignments, oral presentations, projects, quizzes, demonstrations, peer assessments, and self-assessments.

·       Communicate the objectives, criteria, and expectations for each formative assessment task.

o   Providing rubrics or grading criteria can help students understand what is expected of them and how their work will be evaluated.

·     Provide prompt feedback after formative assessments to help students understand their strengths and areas for improvement.

o   Feedback should always be specific, constructive, and actionable, focusing on the learning goals and individual student needs.

·        Differentiate formative assessments to meet the diverse needs of students.

o   Fair is not always equal (Wormeli, 2017). Offering alternative tasks or adjustments in the assessment process accommodates differences in ability, background, language proficiency, and learning pace.

·        Foster opportunities for peer collaboration and support during formative assessments.

o   Peer feedback, group discussions, and collaborative projects can enhance learning and provide valuable insights for diverse learners.

·     Integrate technology tools and platforms to facilitate formative assessments and provide personalized learning experiences.

o   Digital tools can offer adaptive feedback, interactive activities, and opportunities for self-paced learning.

·       Encourage students to reflect on their learning process and assess their own progress.

o   Directly teach metacognitive strategies such as goal setting, self-monitoring, and self-reflection to help students become more independent learners.

·       Ensure that formative assessments are culturally relevant and inclusive of diverse perspectives.

o   Use examples, materials, and contexts that resonate with students' cultural backgrounds, experiences, and Funds of Knowledge (Moll, González, & Amanti, 2009; Roe, 2019).

·       Offer students choices in how they demonstrate their learning during formative assessments.

o   Respective of Universal Design for Learning Principles and Guidelines (Rose & Meyer, 2002; CAST, 2018) allow students to select topics, formats, or approaches that align with their interests and strengths, which promotes engagement and ownership of learning.

Using ongoing formative assessments is a reliable way to monitor students' progress and adjust instruction as needed. Regular check-ins, informal observations, and formative quizzes can help teachers identify learning gaps and provide timely interventions. By implementing these strategies, ICORT-minded teachers can create more reliable formative assessments that support the diverse needs of all learners, leading to improved learning outcomes and academic success.

 

To Cite:

Anderson, C.J. (March 31, 2024) Supporting diverse learners with more reliable, formative assessments. [Web log post] Retrieved from http://www.ucan-cja.blogspot.com/

 

References:

Anderson, C. J. (2021). Developing your students' emotional intelligence and philosophical  perspective begins with I-CORT. Journal of Invitational Theory and Practice, 27, 36-50.

 

CAST (2018). Universal design for learning guidelines version 2.2 [graphic organizer]. Retrieved from: udlguidelines.cast.org

 

Moll, L., González, N., & Amanti, C. (2009). Funds of knowledge: Theorizing practices in

            households, communities, and classroom: Routledge

Purkey, W. W., & Novak, J. M. (2015). Fundamentals of invitational education. (2^nd Ed) International Alliance for Invitational Education. Retrieved from: Fundamental of Invitational Education | IAIE

 

Roe. K. (2019) Supporting student assets and demonstrating respect for funds of knowledge.

             Journal of Invitational Theory and Practice, v25 p5-13

 

Rose, D. H., & Meyer, A. (2002). Teaching every student in the digital age: Universal design for learning. ASCD.

 

Wormeli, R. (2017). Fair isn't always equal: Assessment and grading in the differentiated classroom. Stenhouse Publishers. Retrieved from https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED592455

Yes, Teacher Candidates Should be Proficient with Impeccable Planning, Effective Instruction, and Reliable Assessment of Learning

Teacher candidates must be proficient in planning, instruction, and assessment for several reasons, as these are crucial components of effective teaching and student learning. Proficiency in these areas demonstrate teacher candidates are better able to create a dynamic and effective learning environment that promotes student success (Darling-Hammond, Hyler, & Gardner, 2017). These skills are fundamental to the teaching profession and subsequently contribute significantly to the quality of education provided to students.  An intentional, caring, optimistic, respectful, and trustworthy (ICORT) mindset (Purkey & Novak, 2016; Anderson, 2021) is crucial for fostering an inclusive, supportive, and well-managed learning environment. Let’s discuss why proficient demonstration of these skills are minimal expectations for the teacher candidate’s “Day One Readiness.”

Impeccable planning ensures that a teacher candidate has clear objectives and goals for each lesson. Effective instruction helps in delivering content that engages students and facilitates understanding. Proficient teacher candidates can plan and implement differentiated instruction to meet the diverse needs of their students. This includes adapting teaching methods, materials, and assessments to cater to various learning styles and abilities.

Proficiency in planning ensures that lessons align with curriculum standards and learning objectives. This alignment is crucial for students to progress through a coherent and structured educational experience. Planning is essential for effective time management. Effective teachers need to allocate time for each lesson component, ensuring that there is a balance between introduction, instruction, practice, and assessment. This helps maximize the use of instructional time. Well-planned lessons and effective instruction contribute to a positive classroom environment. When students are engaged and understand the expectations, a more conducive learning atmosphere is the result.

By creating measurable objectives for their lessons, teacher candidates can then develop and utilize reliable assessment that measures the extent to which students have mastered the learning objectives. Reliable assessment allows teachers to hold students accountable for their learning and provides opportunities for reflection on teaching practices. Analyzing assessment data helps teachers identify areas of strength and areas that need improvement. During clinical experiences. teacher candidates need opportunities to design, implement, and assess instructional activities This hands-on experience helps them understand the importance of formative and summative assessment, as well as providing constructive feedback to students to support their learning. This cycle of planning, instruction, and assessment is fundamental to achieving positive student learning outcomes.

Teachers need to communicate with parents, administrators, and other stakeholders about student progress. Clear planning, effective instruction, and reliable assessment provide tangible evidence of student achievements and areas for growth (Grossman & Fraefel, 2024). Reflecting upon the effectiveness of lessons and assessments allows teacher candidates to refine and enhance their instructional strategies over time.

Therefore, effective clinical experiences play a crucial role in preparing teacher candidates to be "Day One Ready." Practical, hands-on opportunities allow the teacher candidate to apply and reinforce the knowledge and skills gained during the teacher preparation programs.  Crucially, clinical experiences allow teacher candidates to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world classroom settings. This hands-on practice helps bridge the gap between theory and practice, enabling candidates to understand how to adapt their knowledge to diverse and dynamic classroom environments.

One of the most challenging aspects for new teachers is effectively managing a classroom. Clinical experiences provide teacher candidates with the chance to practice and develop classroom management skills.  These skills include behavior management, establishing routines, and creating a positive learning environment based on an ICORT Mindset.

Effective teaching involves catering to diverse learning needs. Clinical experiences expose teacher candidates to a variety of learners with different abilities, learning styles, and backgrounds. This exposure helps the teacher candidate develop the skills to differentiate instruction and provide students with opportunities for success rather than frustration anxiety, and tension (Lavoie, 1987).

In real classrooms, teachers need to work closely with other educators, administrators, and parents. Clinical experiences promote collaboration and communication skills as teacher candidates interact with various stakeholders in the education system. This collaboration helps them understand the importance of teamwork in achieving educational goals.

During clinical experiences, teacher candidates should be encouraged to engage in reflective practice. Prompts should invite teacher candidates to critically analyze their teaching methods and the impact upon student learning. This self-reflection is crucial for continuous improvement and professional growth, fostering a Growth Mindset (Dweck, 2014) that embraces lifelong learning.

Classrooms are dynamic, diverse environments.  As a result, unexpected challenges can arise. Clinical experiences expose teacher candidates to the unpredictable nature of teaching, helping them develop adaptability, resilience, and problem-solving skills necessary for success in the profession. Exposure to diverse classrooms during clinical experiences helps teacher candidates develop cultural competence and willingness to increase their Funds of Knowledge (Moll, González, & Amanti, 2009; Roe, 2019). They learn to appreciate and address the diverse needs and backgrounds of their students, fostering an inclusive and equitable teaching approach.

Numerous researchers, including some that are listed herein, have investigated teacher preparation programs to assess their effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. Yes, the field of education research is vast and different researchers may focus on various aspects of teacher preparation.  However, let’s reach consensus that effective clinical experiences provide teacher candidates with the practical skills, knowledge, and dispositions necessary for successful teaching. Through these experiences, candidates become more confident, adaptable, and "Day One Ready" to effectively navigate the complexities of their future classrooms.

To Cite:

Anderson, C.J. (February 29, 2024) Yes, teacher candidates should be proficient with impeccable planning, effective instruction, and reliable assessment of learning. [Web log post] Retrieved from http://www.ucan-cja.blogspot.com/

 

References:

Anderson, C. J. (2021). Developing your students' emotional intelligence and philosophical  perspective begins with I-CORT. Journal of Invitational Theory and Practice, 27, 36-50.

Darling-Hammond, L., Hyler, M. E., & Gardner, M. (2017). Effective Teacher Professional Development. Palo Alto, CA: Learning Policy Institute. Retrieved from:  https://learningpolicyinstitute.org/product/teacher-prof-dev

 

Grossman, P. & Fraefel, U (2024).  Core practices in teacher education. Harvard Education Press. ISBN: 9781682538692

 Moll, L., González, N., & Amanti, C. (2009). Funds of knowledge: Theorizing practices in          households, communities, and classroom: Routledge

Purkey, W. W., & Novak, J. M. (2015). Fundamentals of invitational education. (2^nd Ed) International Alliance for Invitational Education. Retrieved from: Fundamental of Invitational Education | IAIE

Roe. K. (2019) Supporting student assets and demonstrating respect for funds of knowledge.  Journal of Invitational Theory and Practice, v25 p5-13

In an Inclusive Classroom, Your ICORT Mindset Invites Optimal Student Engagement and Success

Advocates for Invitational Education theory and practice know that an intentional, caring, optimistic, respectful, and trustworthy (ICORT) mindset (Purkey & Novak, 2016; Anderson, 2021) is crucial for fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment. When educators adopt such a mindset, they create a positive atmosphere that encourages optimal student engagement and success, particularly for learners with diverse needs. Let’s explore how an ICORT mindset can positively impact the learners within an inclusive classroom:

Being intentional results in the desire to tailor instruction and provide individualized support.  Being intentional involves recognizing and addressing the diverse needs of students. Educators can differentiate instruction, using varied teaching methods and materials to accommodate different learning styles and abilities. Recognizing and responding to individual needs requires intentional efforts to provide additional support or accommodations as necessary.

Being caring builds relationships and provides needed emotional support.  A caring attitude helps in building positive relationships with students. When students feel valued and cared for, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated to succeed. Providing emotional support is crucial, especially for students who may face additional challenges. This can involve empathy, active listening, and creating a safe space for expressing thoughts and concerns.

Exhibiting optimism embraces a Growth Mindset (Dweck, 2014) and celebrates success.  Cultivating a growth mindset encourages students to see challenges as opportunities for learning and improvement. An optimistic approach fosters resilience and perseverance, crucial for students facing diverse learning needs. Focusing on and celebrating each student's achievements, regardless of size, contributes to a positive and optimistic atmosphere.

Mutual respect values diversity and utilizes inclusive language.  An atmosphere of respect acknowledges and appreciates the diversity of learners. Educators can incorporate diverse perspectives into the curriculum and create an environment where all students feel included and respected. Using inclusive and respectful language contributes to a positive classroom culture where students feel acknowledged and understood.

Promoting trustworthiness, of course builds trust and collaboration. Trust is foundational in any learning environment. Students need to trust their educators to provide the necessary support and resources for their success. Building trust involves consistency, transparency, and follow-through on commitments. Trusting relationships also extend to collaboration with parents, support staff, and specialists to ensure a holistic approach to meeting students' needs.

Yes, an ICORT mindset helps educators create an inclusive classroom whereby every learner is valued, supported, and given opportunities to succeed. An ICORT mindset establishes a foundation for positive interactions.  The result would be diverse learners experiencing a sense of belonging, and your classroom being an environment conducive to learning and growth for all students. 

To Cite:

Anderson, C.J. (January 31, 2023) In an inclusive classroom, your ICORT mindset invites optimal student engagement and success. [Web log post] Retrieved from http://www.ucan-cja.blogspot.com/

 

References:

Anderson, C. J. (2021). Developing your students' emotional intelligence and philosophical  perspective begins with I-CORT. Journal of Invitational Theory and Practice, 27, 36-50.

 

Purkey, W. W., & Novak, J. M. (2015). Fundamentals of invitational education. (2^nd Ed) International Alliance for Invitational Education. Retrieved from: Fundamental of Invitational Education | IAIE