Mastery Based Learning
Principles of Mastery-Based Learning
Over the past decade, many school districts across the country have adopted a mastery-based approach to teaching and learning in order to ensure that all students graduate from high school with the strong educational preparation that is essential to success in today’s global economy and complex society. The following guiding principles define Farmington’s goals for the development of a mastery-based approach to a standards-led school system.
In Farmington, we are committed to ensuring that…
● End of year/course standards define what students must know (content) and be able to do (skills) to demonstrate mastery
● Mastery is determined using a body of evidence of student work evaluated against common criteria or expectations
● Students demonstrate mastery by applying knowledge and skills to new situations or contexts
● Assessment practices reflect an understanding that students learn in different ways and at different rates
● Summative assessment scores / grades are based on the extent to which students are mastering the standards
● Students have multiple and varied opportunities to demonstrate mastery of essential knowledge and skills
● Formative assessments provide timely and specific feedback that helps teachers adjust instruction to meet student needs
● Support is provided when a student does not demonstrate mastery and is sustained as long as needed
● Students have opportunities for pursuing advanced level work, independent study or interest-driven learning
● Students are able to monitor their own progress and determine next steps
● Students revise their work based on feedback throughout the learning cycle
● Students are encouraged to persist in mastering standards