Course Information & FAQ

Course Description

In this eight-week online book study course, participants will read Embedded Formative Assessment by Dylan Wiliam and learn about formative assessment--what it is, what it is not. In addition participants will explore the five key strategies of formative assessment and apply several of the practical techniques for implementing formative assessment in the classroom.
After trying out a technique, participants will share their experiences online by posting brief reflections about their application experiences. The authentic classroom application of the practices described in this book is a key component of this class; thus, if you are not currently in a classroom setting that will allow you to practice formative assessment techniques, we recommend that you opt to take this class at another time.

How will I know what to do and when?
With the exception of the first two weeks of the class, the class works in two-week cycles. There is a tab at the top of the blog for each one- or two-week chunk of the class. Your facilitator will send you reminder emails throughout the course with links to the appropriate page, but you are welcome to visit these pages ahead of time and work ahead if you'd like.

How do I earn clock hours?
Participants interested in 12 clock hours must:
  • Read the text(s) as assigned.
  • Participate fully as outlined in each week or two-week cycle.
  • Read and reply to cohort member’s posts (at least one reply each week or two-week cycle).

Do I have to meet all the deadlines?
Yes. However we understand that things happen. If you miss a deadline, please contact your facilitator.


What is the time period of this class?
October 2-November 27, 2014.

Course At-a-Glance
Week 1
  • Introduction to formative assessment
  • Participants will read assigned text, respond to the posted prompt, and reply to at least one other participant’s comment.
Week 2
  • Exploration of the role learning intentions, context of the learning and success criteria play in formative assessment.
  • Participants will read assigned text, respond to the posted prompt, and reply to at least one other participant’s comment.
Weeks 3-8

  • Three two-week cycles of learning about the five key strategies of formative assessment and applying at least one in the classroom.
  • Participants will read the assigned text, post their plan regarding which technique they will be implementing, share the results of their implementation, and comment on at least one other participant’s plan or results.

Note: Clock hour credit will only be given for those who complete the course as outlined. Partial credit will not be awarded.
Posts and replies must be completed according to scheduled due dates.
Facilitators will keep an attendance/participation list.



How do I post?
1. Type in your comment to the space provided. See example below.
2. Include your first and last name (or at least your last initial) followed by your district name or initials in parentheses in the Name box (see below) so we’ll know who you are and give you clock hour credit for that week.
3. In addition, provide your email address and select one of the options in the Subscribe to drop down list IF you’d like to be notified via email when someone comments on the post or replies to your comment.
4. Press Submit Comment.


Watch this little demonstration to see how it’s done.


Commenting Review from 10Tech on Vimeo.

Can I still participate if I don’t want clock hours?
Why, yes, of course you can! Even if you aren't completing the class for clock hours, we hope you will participate by reading and commenting on posts and/or someone else’s comment any time you’d like.

What if I need help with the blog?
Contact one of your district's technology TOSAs or coaches.


What if I need help with the course?
Contact your facilitator.