Assessment and the IPP process.

When learning about assessment it is important to recognize the distinction between assessment and evaluation. Evaluation is a tool used to determine a final grade for a students learning. Assessment on the other hand is a research instrument that is employed to help the teacher determine what the student has learned, and what areas they are lacking in. The information that is generated from assessment is also beneficial for the child as it shows them what they are doing well. There are three types of assessment, they are, assessment for learning, assessment of learning and assessment as learning, or self-reflection. Assessment as learning gives the teacher a great sense of what the student feels they know, if the student is constantly reflecting on their work then the teacher is provided with an opportunity to reflect on how effective their teaching style is and change it to meet the students needs.
Classroom assessment can also be very supportive of the IPP process. The assessment that we as the classroom teacher collect can both compliment and supplement the information that is included in the specialized assessment data section. In the past the goals in the IPP were set almost exclusively based on the specialized assessment data that was provided by the psychologist or other trained professional. In the present the goals are also directed to the students curriculum based learning needs. The inclusion of goals based on teacher provided assessment affirms the professional opinion of the teacher and reaffirms the importance of teacher observations and assessments.
This information shows me as a future teacher that the assessment data that I contribute to the IPPs of my future students can have a profound impact on the direction of the goals that are set for them in the IPP process. Ensuring that appropriate goals are set that are tailored to their needs can be instrumental in ensuring that they are developing in the areas in which they need it most.