Fairness and Equity in Student Assessment

• In Event: Roundtable Session 73
  In Roundtable Session: Fairness in Student Assessment and Grading

Abstract

This study offers detailed insights into students, parents, teachers, and leaders’ perspectives in relation to fairness and equity in student assessment. The scale of this study (N=3312 participants) is unusual in educational research in Canada and the findings highlight the importance of fair assessment in preserving the fabric of a civil society in which the learning needs of all students are important. The findings are presented in relation to fairness and discrimination and to challenging policy and practice. Study findings indicate that school assessment policies and practices can have detrimental consequences and that some students experience serious assessment challenges. Thus, the paper offers guiding principles and a range of practices intended to enhance fairness and equity in student assessment.

Authors

• Shelleyann Scott, University of Calgary

• Charles Webber, Thompson Rivers University

• Judy Lee Lupart, University of Alberta

• Nola Aitken, University of Lethbridge

• Donald E. Scott, University of Calgary