Teachers’ competence in assessment for learning in early childhood and primary education

This paper explores the definition of Assessment for Learning (AfL) and its importance in learning and teaching. Through lesson observation visits, the authors conducted a study to examine the practice of AfL by Hong Kong teachers. Results indicate that there is a considerable improvement regarding teachers’ competence in AfL, therefore it is recommended that more professional development programs for practicing teachers and pre-service teachers about AfL should be offered to promote young children’s capability of “learning to learn” in early childhood education. Copyright © 2010 Hong Kong Institute of Educational Research. All Rights Reserved.