Evaluating the Effectiveness of Backward Design in Enhancing Formative Assessment Practices

Mojahed Mousa

doi:10.56741/IISTR.jpes.001354

Authors

Mojahed Mousa
mojahed.mousa@staff.alquds.edu
Al-Quds University https://orcid.org/0009-0008-3498-2029

Keywords:

Backward Design, Formative Assessment, Instructional Effectiveness, Mixed-Methods Research, Student Engagement

Abstract

The research investigates backward design implementation in formative assessment practices to determine its effects on instructional effectiveness, student engagement, and curriculum coherence. It employed a mixed-methods design to gather data from 26 in-service teachers who specialized in STEM and English as a Foreign Language at public, private, and UNRWA schools in Palestine. The research used a combination of structured questionnaires and follow-up interviews to obtain both quantitative and qualitative data. Results showed that teachers acknowledge backward design benefits, which include better student comprehension and improved assessment-objective alignment and student motivation, yet they faced implementation difficulties. Teachers indicated that backward design planning led to increased student participation, better critical thinking abilities, and stronger student ownership of their learning. The participants suggested three modifications to backward design, which included adaptable templates, lighter curriculum requirements, and student reflection integration. The research indicates backward design shows potential to improve formative assessment, but its successful implementation needs specific professional development and contextual modifications. It also demonstrates backward design's value for teaching and learning, yet emphasizes the necessity of combining it with conventional curriculum methods in various educational contexts.

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Author Biography

Mojahed Mousa, Al-Quds University

is a dedicated faculty member at Al-Quds Bard College, affiliated with Al-Quds University in Palestine. He is actively involved in the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program, where he teaches courses that integrate pedagogical theory with practical applications in classroom settings. His academic background and professional expertise are rooted in advancing effective teaching methodologies, with a particular focus on educational technology and assessment practices. His research interests include the integration of technology in teaching and learning, formative and summative assessment, and teacher professional development. (email: mojahed.mousa@staff.alquds.edu).

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