Summative assessments, particularly when set and graded externally, transform the dynamic between teachers and students from adversarial to collaborative. In education systems where teachers directly influence students' opportunities (like college admissions), students may view teachers as enemies when grades fail to meet their needs. Conversely, systems with external evaluations position teachers as supportive coaches, fostering a sense of partnership as they guide students towards meeting standardized expectations. The rise of AI complicates traditional grading practices, as AI tools can assess submissions for originality, leading to potential challenges in ensuring fair and equitable evaluations. The inability of AI to reliably distinguish between human and AI-generated work underscores the need for a shift in assessment approaches to maintain integrity in education.
In Episode 24, Anna Stokke interviews Dr. Dylan Wiliam, who is an education researcher renowned for his expertise on formative assessment. They begin by discussing PISA scores and the need to improve math proficiency. They then focus on Dylan's two primary recommendations for raising student achievement – a knowledge-rich curriculum and investing in enhancing teacher effectiveness.
They also discuss both formative and summative assessment. Dylan provides some concrete examples for how educators, whether in school or post-secondary settings, can effectively use formative assessment to support student learning. Along the way, they discuss math specialists in primary schools and things teachers can focus on to have the largest impact. This episode provides a wealth of practical wisdom for teachers, policy makers and parents.
The resource page for this episode includes books, studies and videos mentioned in the episode.
EPISODE TRANSCRIPT
https://www.annastokke.com/ep-24-transcript
EPISODE RESOURCES
https://www.annastokke.com/ep-24-resources
MUSIC
Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it
Blue Dot Sessions – Balti, Noe Noe, Cherry Heath, Lemon and Melon, Haventhorn, Thannoid
Website: www.annastokke.com
X: @rastokke
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/anna-stokke-3a1b4c