Exploring the Impact of Case Study Assessment Projects on Early Childhood Education Students' Assessment Literacy

• In Event: 34.095 - MTCC Roundtable Session 11
  In Roundtable Session: 34.095-6 - Understanding Assessment in Preservice Teacher Preparation

Abstract

Assessment is an essential component of teachers’ work with young children and when strategically implemented supports instructional practices and promotes children’s learning. This exploratory study uses a mixed-strategy approach to gain insight into early childhood educators’ understandings of diverse assessment practices. Participants consist of 19 early childhood education graduate-level students immersed in a semester-long assessment course coupled with a field experience. Data sets include 1) confidence level surveys, 2) cognitive maps, and 3) case study assessment portfolios. Findings suggest the students exit the course with a working knowledge of diverse assessment practices for young children and evidence of the JCSEE (2015) standards 1) foundational, 2) use, and 3) quality are apparent within the students’ cognitive maps and assessment portfolios.

Authors

• Leslie La Croix, George Mason University

• Sehyun Yun, George Mason University

• Erin Geiger, George Mason University

• Julie K. Kidd, George Mason University