End of Semester Reflection

As we approach the end of our first semester, it is a great time to reflect and begin to ponder proficiency based progress.  Proficiency based progress is the second core cell in the personalized learning honeycomb model.  It will be the focus of our work next year.  The intent of this cell is to consider how can students show the knowledge and learning they have gained through a means that supports their learner profile and styles.  The formal definition from the Institute of Personalized Learning is:  Proficiency-based progress and supporting standards represent what learners are asked to master. Standards provide clear targets for learning and help to drive intermediate learning targets and expected outcomes. This component articulates what learners will learn, how deep or broad the learning will be, and how it will be demonstrated and measured. Learner progress toward the standards is based on growing mastery, not seat time.

Importantly, learning progress does not have to follow a single path: where practical, students are given choices regarding the sequence of learning, specific standards-aligned content and skills to learn, methods and resources to employ, and even how to document and assess learning. Regardless of the approach learners take, standards are challenging and compelling, and meeting them will prepare students both for future learning and for later success in academic, professional, and personal life.

At this time as you give finals, grades, and final markings on our standards based reporting tools, consider how you might shift your assessment practices  and reflect on if they are exemplifying what learners will learn, how deep or broad the learning will be, and how it will be demonstrated and measured.  Do students have the ability of choice in demonstrating what they have learned?  How might we add that choice for students?  Take time to reflect and think about the possibilities for a different manner to assess learning.  For more information please see this website:  http://institute4pl.org/index.php/our-model/core-components/proficiency-based-progress/