Assessments – Why Do We Need Them?

Generally defined as the universal scale of learning, an assessment is an integral part of any curriculum mandated by each and every educational institution around the globe.It acts as valuable markers that determine the progress and output of a candidate taking part in and is a mode of measure that primarily determines whetherthe curriculum is being followed correctly or not. Widely used to ascertain the efficiencyof a student in the subject, the method of assessments and examinations dates back ancient China as early as 605AD and has been since then adopted around the globe as a model of identifying and gauging the skills and competency of individuals.

Utility and application of modern assessments

In the present era of modernization, the ancient processof assessments and tests has been modernized to fit the institutional requirements. Assessments now hold a lot of importance as they are used to determine almost every aspect of our careers and professional lives. The world we live in today demands multiple skill sets and we cannot just depend on specializing in one and ignore the rest. Therefore it is crucial for students to be aware of the educational needs and be adept in the subjects that require attention. Here assessments come in as a valuable mode of feedback not only for the teachers in monitoring the progress of the students but also serves as a self-evaluation of knowledge and skills attained thus far by the pupil.

The modern forms of assessments are generally based on written tests, MCQs, and even online exams among a few other types. There are also a plethora of verbal exams, orals, and practical tests that help to determine the amount of knowledge and skills acquired and grade students accordingly on the levels of efficiency. The advantages of assessment in the current system of education are as follows:

• Ensuring proper attention from students: Exams and assessments play a vital role in making the students aware and responsibly learn what is being taught in the class.

• Positive competition: Acquiring top grades in an assessment is one of the most important driving factors that promote a vibe of competition among students trying to come out on top. This not only helps to create an efficient system of learning but also inspires and motivates those lagging behind to rank up and compete with the toppers.

• Overall improvement:The students actively engaging in fair and healthy competition by means of assessments serve to create an electrified atmosphere of learning that aids in the overall developmentof the entire system. Assessments play a big part here as the students not wishing to be left behind start pooling in the effort to succeed and stand proudly shoulder to shoulder beside their peers.

• Learning discipline and proper planning:To secure good grades in the assessments, the students not only have to be disciplined but also plan ahead to efficiently power through the syllabus. These skills thus developed not only aidthe students in securing good grades but also help them immensely in the professional field thereafter.

• Marker for standards: The grades and results attained in an assessment helps to determine the criteria by providing validating certificates that represent the performance, skill, and knowledge for reference of higher institutes and corporate entities that aid in the ease of decision making of inducing a potential candidate into the system. This acts as a filter for appropriating the proper candidates to the respective fields of work or higher studies efficiently.

The system of assessments and tests generally serve as a mode of tracking pupils and allocating time and resources to those falling behind. It also determines the professional efficiency of a student in a particular field based on grades attained and helps the student to make life-changing decisions in the career path ahead. Even though the system is centuries old, it still is as important as it was before, providing everyone with an equal opportunity to work hard and succeed.

We, at the JP International School, as a prime institute of education recognized as one of the Top 10 International schools of Greater Noida, inspire and urge our students to better themselves and try to exceed their own expectations. The modes of assessment that our experienced staff of teachers has designed take into account the diversity of the intellect of our students and are especially tailor-made to create an overall atmosphere of active learning without stifling the young minds with an excess burden.

Years of experience have taught us that fun learning is the most efficient one, and therefore, with the help of projects and practical tests, we aim to bring out the curiosity, interest, and hard work in our students and help them attain higher grades with an improved intellect. The training that we at JPIS provide to our pupils in the form of funyet challenging assessments not only helps to create a favorable atmosphere of knowledge but also goes a long way in preparing them for a future filled with success.

- JP International School