Last week marked Assessment Week at TLA, and I’d like to reflect on a topic that often sparks debate: Are formal assessments necessary?
I’ve heard questions like:
- “Why do you say formal assessments are essential when you’ve mentioned that scores shouldn’t be the focus?”
- “Exams are bad for students. Why do you still use assessments?”
Let’s unpack this.
1. Understanding Assessments
Assessments are tools to evaluate a child’s learning and development. They come in many forms:
- Informal assessments (e.g., play-based activities, classroom observations)
- Formal assessments (e.g., written tests)
At TLA, we use both to create a comprehensive understanding of each student. Today, I want to focus on formal written assessments and why they matter.
2. Why Are Formal Assessments Important?
Formal written assessments provide measurable insights for everyone involved in a child’s learning:
- For Parents: They help identify areas of strength and weaknesses to support targeted growth.
- For Teachers: They guide us in creating effective learning plans.
- For Students: They teach life skills like time management, stress coping mechanisms, and task independence.
When done right, assessments are not just about marks—they are about growth and progress.
3. Why Do We Think Assessments Are “Bad”?
Assessments are often labelled as harmful when we focus solely on scores or mistakes. But the purpose of formal assessments is not to assign labels—it’s to help students reach their goals.
Here’s an analogy:
People say phones are “bad” for children. However, phones were designed to improve convenience and communication. It’s the way they are used that can lead to unintended consequences, like decreased attention spans.
The same goes for formal assessments. It’s not the test itself but how we approach and interpret it that makes the difference.
A Balanced Perspective
At TLA, our focus is not on grades but on how assessments can guide learning. By combining formal and informal assessments, we aim to empower students with the skills and confidence to thrive—not just in the classroom but in life.
What’s your perspective on assessments? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
