Why Assessment?

Abstract

This chapter explains foundations underpinning assessment in ensembles. Music educators need information about what their students know and are able to do in order to do their best teaching. However, such information is hard to obtain using traditional ensemble methods. Individual classroom assessment yields more information about student performance than standardized testing or regular rehearsals. Concepts such as metacognition, the Zone of Proximal Development, self-efficacy, social-emotional learning, and growth mindset can be productively incorporated into the design and use of assessments. Assessment alters the curriculum as tested topics are emphasized, and runs the risk of reductionism. Still, classroom assessment has untapped power to transform ensemble music education.