A contribution to the history of assessment, and a new approach to Socratic discourse

What is it about?

In this article we trace the history of assessment. We find it is a relatively new phenomenon, although the language of assessment has a long history. The words we use around 'assessment', like 'essay' or 'exam' all have their own tortured etymologies and are more akin to taxation or trial than learning. We also propose one potential way to redeem assessment through simulating conversations.

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Why is it important?

This article is the first to trace assessment's tortured history through the ages. If you experience assessment as a painful trial, our research finds you're in good historical company.