AfL Strategies

Term from Teaching industry explained for recruiters

AfL (Assessment for Learning) Strategies are teaching methods that help teachers check and improve student learning during lessons, rather than just at the end. Think of it like taking your car's temperature while driving instead of waiting until you reach your destination. Teachers use these strategies to understand what students know right now, adjust their teaching accordingly, and help students understand their own progress. It's different from traditional testing because it happens continuously and helps make immediate improvements. You might also see this referred to as 'Formative Assessment' or 'Continuous Assessment'.

Examples in Resumes

Implemented AfL Strategies and Assessment for Learning techniques to improve student engagement and learning outcomes

Used AfL methods to track and enhance student progress in real-time

Trained new teachers in effective use of Assessment for Learning Strategies

Typical job title: "Teachers"

Also try searching for:

Educator Instructional Coach Education Specialist Curriculum Developer Assessment Coordinator Learning Specialist Classroom Teacher

Example Interview Questions

Experienced Teacher Questions

Q: How have you implemented AfL strategies to improve learning outcomes in your department or school?

Expected Answer: Strong answers should include examples of leading school-wide assessment initiatives, mentoring other teachers in AfL techniques, and showing evidence of improved student performance through data.

Q: How do you train other teachers in using AfL strategies effectively?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate experience in professional development, sharing best practices, and helping colleagues adapt AfL strategies for different subjects and student levels.

Mid-Level Teacher Questions

Q: Can you describe how you use AfL strategies in your daily teaching?

Expected Answer: Should describe specific examples of using techniques like questioning, feedback, peer assessment, and self-assessment in their lessons.

Q: How do you adjust your teaching based on AfL results?

Expected Answer: Should explain how they modify lesson plans and teaching methods based on student responses and understanding.

Beginning Teacher Questions

Q: What do you understand by Assessment for Learning?

Expected Answer: Should show basic understanding of AfL as ongoing assessment during teaching, not just end-of-unit tests.

Q: What AfL techniques are you familiar with?

Expected Answer: Should mention basic strategies like questioning, thumbs up/down, exit tickets, or other simple checking methods.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic questioning techniques
  • Simple feedback methods
  • Exit tickets and quick checks
  • Student self-assessment tools

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Diverse assessment strategies
  • Detailed feedback techniques
  • Data collection and analysis
  • Peer assessment management

Senior (5+ years)

  • Department-wide assessment planning
  • Teacher training and mentoring
  • Assessment policy development
  • Data-driven improvement strategies

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of basic assessment concepts
  • Only focuses on summative (end-of-unit) assessment
  • Cannot explain how to use assessment results to improve teaching
  • No experience with student feedback techniques