Exploring Primary School Teachers’ Competencies of Alternative Assessment and Evaluation

Abstract

Primary school teachers’ competencies and self-efficacy beliefs of alternative assessment
techniques were investigated and conditions in which they utilize such techniques in the classroom were
explored within the framework of performance indicators set by the Ministry of National Education (MEB).
Nine participants from three different schools in İstanbul participated in this qualitative case study. Purposeful
sampling method was used in determining the participants. Data was collected through semi-structured
interviews with participants and through classroom observations. Findings suggested that primary school
teachers employed performance evaluation, portfolio, project and self-assessment techniques in their teaching
practices. Among performance indicators providing feedback was significantly obvious than others. Twenty
four (24) performance indicators of competence, identified and described by Ministry of Education, and
analysis of classroom obsevations showed that participants’ avarege score of performance competence was
13.4. In conclusion, primary school teachers need support not only in understanding of alternative assessment
and evaluation, but also in how to incorporate these practices into their teaching.