Assessing Christian learning: Towards a practices-based approach to faith, vocation, and assessment. (July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Smith, David I.; Green, Beth; Kurkechian, Mia; Cheng, Albert
• Is Part Of: International journal of Christianity & education. Volume 25:Number 2(2021)
• Page Start: 151
• Page End: 168
• Publication Date: 2021-07
• Subjects: assessment -- Christian practices -- Christian schools -- faith formation -- teaching and learning -- vocation; Christian education -- Periodicals; 230.071
• DOI: 10.1177/2056997121997156
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2056-9971

Abstract

This essay proposes that efforts at assessing the contribution of faith-based schools to faith formation be grounded in an account of student vocation framed by Christian practices. We identify gaps in research on assessment of school effectiveness and suggest that a focus on the present vocation of students may fruitfully connect faith and school-based learning practices. On this basis, we describe a framework for viewing assessment through a practices lens by identifying Christian practices that orient learning practices. We also briefly introduce the Practicing Faith Survey, a new tool based on this approach.