The Effectiveness of an Assessment for Learning Training Program in Improving the Practice of Primary School Teachers of Assessment for Learning Strategies

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to investigate the effectiveness of a training program on “Assessment for Learning” on enhancing elementary teachers assessment for learning practices in their classrooms. One hundred and seventy one teachers attended the training program that was held eight times throughout the semester. A pretest and posttest were implemented on all trainees, mean differences were calculated using the paired- samples t test. Fifty-six of the teachers answered an open-ended survey to collect qualitative data to support quantitative results. Significant differences between pre and post-test means in favour of the latter were found, which illustrates that the program had helped the teachers to develop knowledge of assessment for learning concepts and strategies. Seven assertions emerged from qualitative analysis: Safe Learning Environment, Turning Competition into Collaboration, Developing Thinking Skills, Self-Regulated Learning, Developing Life Skills, Enhancing Motivation, and Learning is for All.