One thing is for sure. Assessments are not dreading to think about anymore. Needs assessments, for one, are necessary to know the current situation and compare this to the ideal or standard situation. Identifying this gap means being able to see the root of a problem or problems. Consequently, solutions will be available to address the problems.
As an educator, I always depend on needs assessment in order for me to identity the knowledge level of my students. For example, I do a one-week online Level test for my ESL students. This Level Test includes assessments in the areas of Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing. For my pre-school students, I also do a one to two days of observations. I need to know what my students currently know, so I can design their learning experience according to what they need as learners.
What I need to improve on is doing a more formal needs assessments involving the learners, the parents, and my colleagues. This way, we will all be able to contribute to the betterment of the current informal education system that we are providing both to face-to-face students and online students.
Overall, having a new mindset in regard to needs assessments as a crucial part of the entire learning and teaching process is the best part I have learned from this course to become a better teacher.
Better Teachers 