Assessment for the ‘class of 2020’ – and 2021

With exams disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic, this online discussion sizes up the task of securing robust and fair assessment for the class of 2020, and possibly future years. For some years, education policy has moved away from teacher assessment in judging pupils’ attainment, especially in relation to the main ‘school-leaving’ exams: GCSEs and A-levels. On the face of it, the Covid-19 outbreak has prompted a sharp reversal in that trend, at least for the ‘class of 2020’. Meanwhile, practical assessment for vocational and technical qualifications has been equally disrupted by the current public health measures. The task of securing robust and fair assessment is a considerable one under any circumstances. We wanted to take stock of the different approach and procedures for awarding qualifications this time around – the issues they raise and what we might learn for future years. Issues for discussion include: Why policy had previously moved away from teacher assessment. The pros and cons of teacher assessment and how it is being deployed this year. The specific issues facing vocational and technical awarding. Considerations for the 2021 cohort of exam takers. What might – or should – change for assessment in future years as a result of the Covid-19 disruptions. Speakers include: Dr Sandra Leaton Gray (Chair), Associate Professor of Education at UCL Institute of Education (IOE) Dr Tina Isaacs, Honorary Associate Professor in Educational Assessment at the IOE Dr Mary Richardson, Associate Professor of Education at the IOE You can also watch a video version and find out more info here: www.ucl.ac.uk/ioe/events/2020/ma…lass-2020-and-2021 Recorded on 18 May 2020, 3:30 pm–4:10 pm