The pedagogic role of assessment in improving learner outcomes

Abstract

Many innovative assessment methods offered to students over the last two decades still retain major focus on measurable performance, whereas the pedagogic role that assessment can play in improving learner outcomes is generally disregarded. This chapter introduces the authors' experience of applying engaging and fair language assessment practices that boost the pedagogic potential of assessment. In more precise terms, it outlines a range of assessment approaches and techniques that ensure greater assessment fairness, encourage experimentation and risk taking on the part of the learner, offer an individualised approach to testing, and contribute to a friendly learning environment. Although their effectiveness was practically tested in language teaching of tertiary students, the assessment practices described are believed to be applicable across a range of other teaching settings.