Alternative assessment to reduce negative backwash effect: exploring the aspects hindering the successful implementation of alternative assessments

Abstract

Alternative Assessment (AA) is highly regarded worldwide because of its significance in developing the necessary skills of the learners along with making teaching and learning more authentic. Recently, in Bangladesh, AA has been inaugurated as the new assessment method at the secondary level of education which has developed different points of views among teachers and guardians. This study explored the status of AA as a newly implemented assessment system for secondary-level education. The study aimed to look at AA’s role in reducing the negative backwash effect of examinations. Furthermore, it investigated issues that are acting as obstacles to the successful implementation of AA. This study adopted a qualitative method of data collection and analysis. For the study, I used semi-structured interviews where the participants were secondary-level school teachers. I also used a focus group discussion with the parents of the students. The data was analyzed using the thematic data analysis method. The result of the study showed that the majority of the teachers have a positive attitude towards AA and they appreciate it. They agreed on the fact that AA can reduce backwash effects and make learning active and interesting. Many teachers are not ready due to the poor pay scale, lack of feedback on training, lack of resources, lack of adaptive mindset, and so on. The teachers suggested working on these issues for the successful implementation of AA. On the other hand, the majority of the parents did not have a positive attitude towards it. They believe that AA is a great initiative but it's more appropriate for higher levels of education and due to the implementation of AA, secondary-level students are not taking their studies seriously. The current study is significant in developing teaching strategy and filling the gaps of knowledge regarding the implementation of AA at the secondary level of education.