In EEX3226: Assessment of All Young Children, we hosted a lively "Mock School Board Meeting." During this exercise, students debated the pros and cons of high-stakes assessments. Each participant assumed a persona—such as a teacher, parent, school board member, or professor—and was assigned a position to defend. They conducted research to understand their assigned character's perspective and developed key arguments to support their stance. One by one, they presented their cases in the simulated school board meeting, culminating in a debriefing session where we discussed the insights gained and reflected on the experience.
To add more depth: This activity not only helped students grasp the complexities of high-stakes assessments but also fostered empathy by encouraging them to see issues from various viewpoints. It honed their research and public speaking skills while promoting critical thinking and collaborative learning. The debrief allowed us to tie theoretical concepts to practical applications, solidifying our understanding and appreciation of diverse educational perspectives. Miami Dade College School of Education 🍎