The prototypical design of learning experiences is based on a logic that requires us to work backward from what we can confidently forecast students will likely need to be able to know and do in the foreseeable future. This approach has its benefits, but it also has serious limitations with respect to what educational experiences can and should offer young people in preparation for navigating uncertain futures.

Chapter 27 stresses the importance of connecting assessment with learning and of assessment prior to implementation of instructional design based on the backward design principle (Wiggins & McTighe, 2005). Backward design contrasts sharply with the traditional approach of planning instructional activities first and designing assessment later in the general instructional process. It also urges teachers to set clear learning objectives as the first step of curriculum design. After offering a short overview of key assessment types for different purposes, it presents Integrated Performance Assessment (IPA: Adair-Hauck, Glisan & Troyan, 2013) model by discussing how language proficiency and skills in real use of grammar and vocabulary can be measured in actual performance assessment. Actual students’ outcomes after implementation of IPA in an Advanced Korean class are collected and analyzed based on rubrics that can be used as standards for scoring. The chapter also analyzes whether there are correlations between IPA results and Proficiency outcomes.

The chapter provides guidance on course design and pedagogical practices that are essential, not only for effective teaching but also for making the case to hiring and promotion committees regarding your ability to reach to students and help them learn. The chapter introduces approaches that are inclusive and broad-minded in their choice and framing of content as well as in their classroom practices. Readers will also find guidance for practicing their craft on remote and hybrid teaching platforms.