How can students assess their own learning?

1 Benefits of self-assessment

Self-assessment can be highly beneficial for students, as it helps them develop metacognitive skills, enhance self-regulation, increase self-awareness, foster self-efficacy, encourage self-improvement, and support self-esteem. It allows them to think about their own thinking and learning processes, monitor and adjust their own learning strategies and goals, understand their strengths and weaknesses, believe in their capabilities and potential, seek and act on feedback, set realistic standards, and appreciate and respect their own worth and abilities.

2 Types of self-assessment

Self-assessment can be used for a variety of purposes in the learning context, and there are several forms it can take. For example, self-checks such as flashcards, quizzes, or checklists are quick and informal ways to review understanding or progress. Self-reports like journals, logs, portfolios, or presentations are written or oral accounts of learning experiences. Self-ratings using rubrics, scales, or surveys are numerical or descriptive evaluations of performance or behavior. And self-reflections like essays, summaries, or questions are thoughtful and critical reviews of learning outcomes, processes, or strategies.

3 Strategies for self-assessment

Self-assessment can be effectively integrated into any learning activity or assignment, as long as it is adequately aligned with the learning goals and expectations. Strategies for self-assessment include setting clear and specific criteria for success, providing models of high-quality work, encouraging peer feedback and collaboration, asking open-ended and reflective questions, and using a variety of tools and formats. These strategies should be shared with students, discussed with them, and guided to give and receive constructive feedback. Additionally, students should be allowed to choose or create their own tools for self-assessment.

4 Challenges of self-assessment

Self-assessment can also pose some challenges for students, such as overestimating or underestimating one's own performance or abilities due to lack of confidence, bias, or inaccurate self-perception. Furthermore, students may struggle to apply the criteria or feedback due to lack of clarity, consistency, or relevance. Additionally, they may feel overwhelmed or discouraged by the amount or quality of feedback without the necessary support, guidance, or encouragement. Finally, students may reject the feedback due to lack of trust, respect, or openness.

5 Tips for self-assessment

Regular and consistent self-assessment can be improved by following some tips, such as seeking feedback from multiple sources and perspectives, using feedback as a learning opportunity, setting specific and realistic goals and action plans, and reflecting on one's own learning style and preferences. It is important to compare and contrast the feedback received, focus on the positive and constructive aspects, track and celebrate one's own progress and achievements, and find the best ways to learn and assess oneself.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?