Assessment
The Victorian Essential Learning Standards provide a set of standards for assessment of student achievement. Students achieve the standards by successfully completing a wide range of learning and assessment activities designed by their teachers. The assessment process is ongoing and should provide opportunities for students to fully demonstrate their skills, knowledge and depth of understanding of the curriculum.
Assessment is not only focused on the end product or on test results. Assessment is used by teachers to help direct the learning program so that it best meets the needs of the students. Assessment can also be used as a learning tool where students reflect on and monitor their learning to inform their future learning goals.
Evidence used for assessment may be gathered through the production of physical items (such as written work, models, objects or videos) or through observation (such as participation in class discussions, presentations or approach to work).
Teachers use resources prepared by organisations like the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority, the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development and the Catholic Education Offices to develop programs relevant to the standards. They are also working with colleagues in their schools and with networks of teachers to refine their understanding of what is required to meet the standards.
