InTASC Standard #6 highlights the pivotal role of a music teacher in cultivating an engaging learning environment. With this in mind, it is the job of the educator to implement a range of  assessment methods, not only to evaluate students’ musical progress, but also to actively engage learners in their own musical journey. As a music teacher, it is imperative to consistently employ assessments to ensure that all students grasp and retain the musical concepts taught in each lesson. Educators should be aware of the multiple assessment methods available, which cater to diverse learning styles and allow multiple ways to evaluate each student's performance. This invaluable feedback informs ongoing teaching strategies tailored to each student’s needs. Music teachers can incorporate both formal assessments, such as written or playing tests, and informal assessments, such as games or observations into their lessons. These assessments can be integrated seamlessly into daily activities, which makes learning enjoyable while still providing insights into students’ improvements, knowledge and confidence in their musical abilities. Embracing creativity in teaching and assessment methods is essential for fostering student engagement and musical growth. It is imperative for our generation of educators to rethink traditional testing methods and embrace a diverse approach that enhances student engagement and musical development.

As a senior at Ball State, as well as being a private lessons teacher and adjunct teacher, I possess a large degree of expertise in assessment. Typically, during my private lessons, I gauge a student’s performance by closely observing their playing. In a lesson, I compare and contrast how they perform from the beginning of the lesson to the end. Additionally, I have conducted assessments by using different activities, such as games or fun worksheets to evaluate a student’s grasp of specific musical concepts. I am also always asking questions to ensure the student understands what is being taught. During my time at Ball State, I had to perform many peer teachings and teachings in a music classroom outside of campus. In all of these teachings, I had to include some form of assessment, whether it be an exit ticket, a final performance or simply asking questions. My choice of assessment was always included in my lesson plan. I also had to read articles and write reflections on different forms of assessments in the classroom. Lastly, I had to create a Sample Grading Policy I would use in a classroom that explained my different forms of assessments. Whether it be my private lesson students, or creating a lesson plan for a grade, I would use the results of these assessments to inform and tailor my subsequent lessons, enabling me to provide targeted assistance and enhance the student’s comprehension of the subject matter.

It is a valuable skill for an educator to continue to grow in the area of understanding and using multiple methods of assessment to engage learners and guide instruction. Some things I would do to ensure growth in this area is to attain professional development, get feedback from my students, use technology and to always be exploring a wide range of assessment methods. Seeking out professional development opportunities, specifically focused on assessment, can help give me ideas on different types of assessment I can use in the classroom. Professional development ensures that, as an educator, I am always learning and growing. This can also provide opportunities in peer collaboration, to discuss different assessment methods with other educators, which would provide valuable insights and new ideas. I would also want to collect feedback from my students and ask for their opinions. I want to know what they find engaging and what they think helps them learn best. I would use this feedback to adjust my assessment methods and strategies. Incorporating technology can be a creative way to diversify assessment methods. There are various digital tools and platforms that can make assessment not only more engaging for students, but also more efficient. Lastly, I will explore a wide range of assessment methods, such as formative assessments, self-assessments, and peer assessments. I could also allow for projects and performances to be a means of assessment. While each method has pros and cons, using a variety can provide a more comprehensive view of student learning, and help meet the needs of every student in the classroom. Assessments are far more than grading, but helping each student learn and grow. Development assessment skills and techniques can help better equip me to engage my students in their own growth and also guide my teaching based on their progress. 

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