Support Learner Self-Assessment

NOTE: This strategy is part of the self-paced Use Assessment as a Tool for Learning Course

Self-assessment is empowering learners to consider where they are in their own learning by intentionally creating transparency of the learning process and creating a safe space to make mistakes. Self-assessment is often supported by a rubric or other criteria for mastery. When learners know where they are and where they’re going, motivation and engagement increase.

Bright Spots

Gain inspiration from authentic examples of this strategy shared by teachers who have used them with their learners.

Creating your own Bright Spots? Let’s get them out into the world! Share yours here.

Tracking Mastery

Amesha Forward at Kate Bell Physical Development Magnet School has elementary learners track their mastery of specific competencies & skills. These self-assessments quickly turn into action planning at the bottom of the document.

Photo credit: https://twitter.com/FastForwardMat1/status/1050113500901728257

Learner Profile Self-Assessment

Alex Lancia encourages his elementary students to self-assess themselves on their Learner Profile competencies.

Goals Based on Reflection

An elementary teacher at Mona Elementary School in Juab, Utah has created 4 learning activities. Students self-assess their understanding and set a learning goal. Based on their goal and their reflection, they determine which activity would be best for them that day.

Quick Reflection

An elementary teacher in Rochester, NH encourages students to quickly reflect on their learning using a 1-4 scale.

Use a Rubric in Self-Assessment

Sevier MS teacher in Kingsport, TN starts her 6th grade writing unit by sharing the rubric with students. Each learner assesses sample writing using the rubric to build their assessment muscle. They discuss their assessments as a whole-group to align. Later, once they have their own first draft, students self-assess with the same rubric.

Teacher at Dobyns-Bennett High School in Kingsport, TN encourages students to self-assess their learning using a rubric before submitting final work to her for grading.

Magnet Self-Indicators

PE Self Assessment in Mineola at Jackson Elementary. Students move their magnet to identify where they are and the educator can gauge student levels and provide support as necessary.

Resources

Inspired? Use the resources below to bring this learner-centered strategy to your learning community.

📖 7 Strategies to Improve Metacognition
📖 Responsive Classroom Tools: Self-Assessment
📖 Use Assessment as a Tool for Learning Course
📖 Cornell University Self-Assessment Resources
📺 Michigan Department of Education: Self Assessment

Associated Learner-Centered Competencies:

Assess formatively: I frequently use a variety of formative assessment methods, including self-assessment, to monitor progress and guide educators’ and learners’ next steps in the learning process.

Encourage Goal-Setting and Reflection: I provide opportunities and supports for learners to set goals, create action plans and regularly reflect on their progress.

Embed Reflection: I embed reflection opportunities throughout the learning experience to support the learning process.