What does "differentiating assessment” involve?

Differentiating assessment involves adapting assessment methods based on individual student needs to accurately measure learning. This approach recognizes that each student has unique learning styles, strengths, challenges, and backgrounds that can influence how they demonstrate their understanding and skills. By tailoring assessments, educators can provide a more accurate reflection of what each student has learned.

For instance, some students might excel in verbal expression while others might perform better with visual or hands-on tasks. Differentiating assessments helps ensure that all students have the opportunity to showcase their knowledge in a way that aligns with their learning preferences. This approach contributes to a more inclusive educational environment and promotes equity in assessment practices.

The concept of differentiating assessments contrasts with a one-size-fits-all approach, where the same test is given to all students, which does not account for individual differences and may not accurately reflect each student's knowledge or abilities.