Self-Assess Project
“Self-assessment is the relatively autonomous and deliberate engagement in reviewing and critiquing one’s work in an appraisal of progress made over a period of time […] meant to increase the learner’s self-responsibility and self-regulation in learning (Zimmermann, 2000).” (Tillema, 2010)
In simpler terms, self-assessment is exactly what it sounds like – it is when someone evaluates their own work, judging it based on personal (or external) standards and finding ways they could improve. The act of self-reflection and working to improve both oneself and one’s work is more important than the exact standards themselves.
Reflection
Try looking at your project and asking questions such as:
- Did I achieve my goal for this project?
- If the project were to be graded, what grade would I give, and why?
- If I were to do the project again, what would I do differently?
- Would I feel proud about presenting this project?
- Is this my best work? Does the project reflect the work I put into it?
Alternatively, try using a rubric and scoring oneself.
Remember: “Work Smart, Not Hard”
This reflection and assessment can also happen during the project too. Ask:
- Is this the best use of my time?
- Is there an easier way to do this?
- Am I currently working towards completing my goal for this project (not going off on a tangent)?
- Am I recording everything (sources, data, quotes, etc.)?
- Is there another way of approaching this that I haven’t considered?
- What environment do I do my best work in?
Possibly most importantly, if you have been working for a while and a section or part is giving more trouble than expected ask:
- Is it time for a short 5-15 min snack/bathroom/nap/internet break?