What is a dynamic assessment?

A dynamic assessment is a method that evaluates a learner’s potential by incorporating guided instruction during the assessment process. This approach is rooted in the principles of Vygotsky's zone of proximal development, where the emphasis is placed on measuring not just what a learner knows at a specific point in time, but what they can learn with the support of an educator or a more knowledgeable other.

Unlike traditional assessments that focus solely on static knowledge, dynamic assessments are designed to identify a learner's potential by observing how they respond to prompts or tasks when provided with assistance and feedback. This allows educators to gain insights into the learner's development capabilities, adaptability, and problem-solving skills rather than just their current performance level.

The goal of dynamic assessment is to foster a more comprehensive understanding of a learner's abilities and to identify ways to maximize their learning potential, making it a valuable tool in educational psychology and instructional design.