Module 2: Using Mediated Learning Experience in Dynamic Assessment

Dynamic assessment (DA) consists of a test–teach–retest approach to evaluation. The DA process examines an individual’s response to a mediated learning experience (MLE) and probes a potential area of concern. With this framework, the examiner teaches strategies and observes use that will assist learning. The goal of MLE is to create learners who are self-directed and independent.

Component	Description	Why	Sample Script (vocabulary)
Intentionality	Relaying intent of teaching goal. Tell them the target and the reason for the MLE.	Teaches and creates awareness.	“Today, we are going to work on special names.”
Meaning	Focusing attention on why this goal is important. Help focus attention to important features of the task and ignore unimportant features.	Promotes understanding of why task is important.	“Special names are important because they help us tell other people what things are and help us to communicate clearly.”
Transcendence	Bridging of concepts and events beyond the current context; introducing abstract ideas. Examples include questions like, “What would happen if...?” and “Have you ever...?”	Supports hypothetical thinking and carryover.	“Special names help us organize. We put things together according to their category. What would happen if you went to a restaurant and asked for a ‘thing’? Would they know what to bring?”
Competence	Developing a plan and thinking through how they will use the targeted strategy. Discuss appropriate times to use the targeted skill.	Teaches self-regulation and active participation in their own learning.	“When I show you the pictures, do you know what you are going to do? Let’s think about and use special names. In your class, you’re going to remember to ask for things by their name.”

A key to MLE is that the examiner deliberately teaches, watches how individuals respond to instruction, and adjusts teaching accordingly. Examining an individual’s response to an MLE can have direct implications for intervention.

MLEs are integral to DA. What are the components of MLE? How do we build an intervention using principles of MLE?

This course will teach you how to