Learning to Use Formative Assessment in Middle School Mathematics Using the Assessment Work Sampling Method (AWSM)

Funded by U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences, this three-year development project uses the Assessment Work Sample Method (AWSM) to provide teachers with authentic samples of mathematics formative assessment work and an interactive, hands-on experience to increase their understanding of formative assessment and improve their practice of formative assessment. The research team is examining to what extent to AWSM can be implemented with fidelity in an authentic education delivery setting, to what extent it shows promise for improving teacher practice of mathematics formative assessment, and to what extent it shows promise for increasing student achievement in mathematics. The study team is developing, revising, and field testing this innovative professional development program for implementing formative assessment in middle school mathematics.