The process of reflection is an important aspect of our daily lives. It enables us to identify how situations may have been managed differently, and prepares us for similar opportunities in the future. It is widely accepted across industry, sport and education that to improve future outcomes evaluation and analysis of past performances must occur. Through reflection we discern what went well and where growth and improvement can take place.

At St Catherine’s, feedback on assessment is entrenched in the learning process for all our students. It is interconnected within both the curriculum and teacher instruction. As students work towards understanding concepts and achievement of curriculum outcomes, assessment plays a constant role in informing students of what they know and how well they are able to apply this knowledge. Teacher feedback guides the student to identify the necessary ‘next steps’ required for further growth, skill acquisition and application. As teachers we encourage students to reflect and self-evaluate their performance.

The St Catherine’s Mathematics Department has recently introduced a new initiative whereby a Student Reflection and Evaluation component complements teacher feedback. Students are encouraged to review their own performance at the completion of a unit of work. In addition, they are asked to measure their overall achievement, skill acquisition and application, as well as their ability to apply key concepts and techniques to a range of tasks within an assessment. Students are also advised to consider and evaluate their overall preparation and study routines.

Students have been very positive about this opportunity, as is evident in the comments below:

“I find this feedback really useful because I can see how I went, and the things I did well and the ones I need to improve on.” Jessica Elshaug, Year 7

“I think it’s useful because it shows you what you need to work on, which skills can be practised and therefore you can improve.” Finn McCarthy, Year 7

“I think they are beneficial because I can always reflect back on them and see my improvement along the way.” Angela Feng, Year 7

“Yes, the assessment feedback helped me to see clearly what I did well in and what I could improve on next time. I thought they were useful to see what my teacher thought of my work and what I could work on through the feedback section.” Valerie Chau, Year 8

“I thought the feedback sheets were very useful. It really helped knowing what I needed to improve on and what I am good at. It was nice seeing your comments too Miss Andrews!” Annabel Taylor, Year 8

“I think reflecting on my work helps me realise whether I did enough to prepare, and shows if the study I did was sufficient. So, I think they are helpful to remind me of what needs to be done in order to get the results I want,” Rosie Osborn, Year 11

It is hoped the new initiative will significantly benefit students, allowing them to actively participate and engage in their learning process and ultimately encourage critical thinking, mathematical experience and confidence.