Transformative Assessment

In Chapter One of his book, Transformative Assessment, James Popham defines formative assessment as, "a planned process in which teachers or students use assessment-based evidence to adjust what they are currently doing" (p 6.). Overall, Popham uses this chapter to present a clear and detailed definition of exactly what formative assessment is and is not. His overview also offers a thorough explanation of the development of formative assessment and how it can be used in conjunction with accountability tests to improve student performance and test results.

Popham makes a compelling argument regarding the implementation of formative assessment. First, he makes the logical claim that teachers are typically likely to implement new instructional methods if they used successfully and recommended by other educators. In addition, because most teachers aim to help students learn, they will implement formative assessment to improve their overall instructional practice and learning outcomes. Popham, then,...
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