Reflecting on Assessment & Student Learning

In order to continually check for our students’ understanding of the content of the day or week, teachers might consider using student journal entries as a means to effectively analyze their... See More

In order to continually check for our students’ understanding of the content of the day or week, teachers might consider using student journal entries as a means to effectively analyze their students’ learning progress. The insights gained can then be used to inform teachers on how to guide instruction. This book chapter provides seven specific questions teachers should consider before analyzing their students’ thinking. For example, finding out ahead of time what misconceptions students might have about a concept will heighten a teacher’s awareness of this obstacle to learning. Having an organized approach to follow will help teachers use this informative tool more effectively. The seven considerations are explained in detail and can be used as a checklist to effectively analyze journal entries.