Rubrics for assessment

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As a model of assessment, rubrics are used fairly extensively and if used sympathetically can capture the development of creativity skills in different contexts. It is also interesting to hear how other practitioners both view and use rubrics for assessment.

In her article 'Understanding Rubrics,' Heidi Andrade sets out her view of the benefits of using rubrics, and considerations which need to be taken account of when designing the rubrics. (The full article can be accessed here).

In the article, the author defines a rubric as a "scoring tool that lists the criteria for a piece of work." The author explains that the language chosen for the the criteria music not be negative in nature as the rubric can be used both as a tool for assessment but also to point out the next steps in a pupil's learning. The criteria for assessment is listed which usually would be key attributes of the task being assessed. Next to each of these criteria are generally 3 or more statements. They outline different levels of success from excellent to poor. Increments of success can then be inserted in between. This helps a pupil to develop an understanding of how well they have achieved and what they need to do if they are to achieve the next level. The author points how rubrics can improve student performance mainly as the pupil can develop a better understanding of their own learning. This can happen through pupils becoming more thoughtful judges of their own work. If used for peer and self assessment between pupils, it can reduce teacher workload in terms of the assessment burden. Rubrics can be flexible and open ended and are capable of encompassing a wide range of student ability and contexts for learning. Rubrics themselves are generally easy to both use and explain.

When designing a rubric, the author advises that the language used be clear and easy to understand by the learners. There is a degree of explanation required to the pupils in the purpose of the rubric and any language which may give cause for confusion. If the rubric is clear and easy to understand there is a better chance of it gaining traction with the pupils in class.

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