An Introduction to Assessment

• definitions of educational assessment and the part it plays in relation to individuals, institutions and society
• historical and sociological perspectives
• the impact of educational assessment internationally and how this needs to change in the light of globalisation and changing employment needs
• the advent of assessment as a policy tool with league tables and targets underpinning the overwhelming impact of accountability requirements
• teacher appraisal and institutional self-evaluation, as well as international indicators
• assessment for learning
• new ideas concerning how assessment could be developed in the light of the advent of novel information technologies. 

In addressing these things, the author shows that assessment truly is a defining feature of contemporary education, and takes her overview to the cutting edge of thinking in this field with coverage of the scope of e-assessment, and assessment for learning as critically important ways forward.
Written in an accessible and engaging style, An Introduction for Assessment is for all those who are seeking a non-technical introduction, yet one that is delivered by a leading academic in the field and offers a fresh look at educational assessment today.