ASSESSMENT of learning
Assessments and evaluations are an essential part of every child’s academic life, more so for children who who have learning gaps- which could be due to a disability or due to environmental factors.
At weCan, it is the first step in any programme.
It is surprising that a small weak link in academic progression, if strengthened, can not only fill academic gaps but also help to address other psychological issues of underperformers.
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BASELINE ASSESSMENT- a full and individual initial evaluation of the child must be conducted, to gauge the present level of the child as against the expected levels and to identify week links in the foundational knowledge and concepts. It is an important beginning point for planning, remediation and special education if required.
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Once the assessment is done Long Term Goals(LTG) and Short Term Goals(STG) are set according to the needs of the child. Goals are evaluated after every three months.
Identifying gaps and ascertaining a child’s academic lev el- requires, tried and tested methods, trained and experienced observations and most importantly expertise in the system of baseline and periodic assessments and for recording and tracking the progress. There are several tools- some are standardized and some are Curriculum Based Assessments which are teacher made. GLAD (Grade Level Assessment Device) which is primarily used to identify areas of learning difficulties. The standardized tool- The Competency Ladder- by NCERT is a scientific and accurate way of conducting baseline assessments.
The challenge lies in the optimum and most effective use of the tools.
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These are NOT the regular curriculum based assessments. These are assessments conducted by weCan, wherein age approprate academic skills are assessed, using the competency ladder approach.
The importance of baseline assessments, especially as part of academic audits in schools, cannot be undermined. They are the foundation of education which provide the framework for planning educational needs of students. Baseline assessments are the first step in planning and implementing improved teaching and enhancing learning outcomes.
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Assessments ascertain the child’s present level as against the expected level.
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Specific learning gaps are identified.
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Goal setting becomes an automatic part of the process.
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In a mainstream classroom, this addresses one more challenge- grouping children of similar ability so that the concept of differential teaching and learning, can be applied.