Validity and Reliability of Academic Assessments

Reading from What Did You Ask At School Today? by Kamala Mukunda

Fridays at EBD session on the 23rd of January 2026: Dedicated to examining assessment methodologies in education, drawing comparisons between the precision of a metal ruler and the dependability of academic evaluations. Participants, comprising educators and students, shared their insights on the efficacy and fairness of standardised testing. The group critically analysed the limitations of these assessments in accurately gauging a student's comprehension and intelligence, and considered whether assessments need to be as precise as a metal ruler. Discussions also encompassed the potential adverse effects of high-stakes testing on instructional quality and student learning outcomes, as well as the difficulties associated with the accurate interpretation of test scores. The session concluded with an invitation for ongoing reflection on assessment practices and a reminder of the forthcoming meeting scheduled for January 30th.