Shessel, Megan Sara

Abstract

The purpose of this research study was to highlight for teachers, as well as for my own understandings, the importance of formative assessment and feedback practices, (such as the use of portfolios), which are not necessarily only for students. Teachers should be continuously taking stock of their teaching methods and reflecting on how effective they are. Formative feedback (and assessment) allows teachers to point students in the right direction on their learning path. As well, it allows teachers to see whether their teaching goals (or chosen curriculum expectations) are being met and learning attained by their students. The data for this research was collected through an examination of literature on formative assessment and feedback practices and three face-to-face interviews with in-service teachers in a school board in the greater Toronto area. In some of the literary data that was retrieved, the authors mentioned that embedding formative assessment practices directly into the curriculum would help teachers with their formative assessments. However, the interview data analysis showed that generalizations about formative assessment and how to give feedback are not necessarily useful because of the vast dynamics of students from class to class and from year to year. The interviewees expressed the importance of knowing one’s students well and planning accordingly based on their specific needs.

Acknowledgements

I wish to acknowledge and thank first and foremost my parents. Mom, you are my inspiration, my advocate and my cheerleader. I would not have been able to come this far in my educational career if it was not for your emotional and academic support. You are also my most influential role model. You have shown me what dedication and perseverance can do. You have also instilled in me my passion for learning, and have shown me that learning never has to stop. Dad, you are my biggest cheerleader. I know that no matter what I have accomplished, big or small, you are proud of me. You have also taught me many important life lessons such as, although educators may not have faith in your abilities, as long as you have dedication and perseverance, you can achieve your goals. Your warmth and caring nature never ceases!

I would also like to take the opportunity to thank Dr. Susan Schwartz. I am so grateful for all of your support and guidance. I could not have asked for a better supervisor. Your accomplishments and endless amount of caring and support have made you another one of my most influential role models. You are a wealth of knowledge and your feedback has made me a better student, and ultimately a better teacher. You are an amazing woman and I feel lucky and privileged to have had the opportunity to work with you.

To my internship school, my sincerest thanks for allowing me to work and learn at your school, and for providing me with the opportunity to work with such an inspiring group of educators. It is evident as soon as you walk into the school how dedicated the teachers and administrators are to the students and their jobs. Thank you all!