12 Common Assessment Misconceptions — and How to Avoid Them

Avoid Misinterpretations, Use Data Effectively, and Improve Learning Outcomes

Misunderstanding assessment can lead to missed opportunities for student progress and teacher support. This eBook, written by Dr. Cochron, breaks down the most common misconceptions about assessment in K-12 education and provides clear strategies to avoid them.


Whether you’re a school leader looking to strengthen district-wide practices or a teacher aiming to make assessment work for your students, this guide will help you:

  • Shift your mindset: Understand why assessment is a process, not just a test.

  • Avoid common pitfalls, like misinterpreting scores and over-relying on single data points.

  • Learn actionable strategies to leverage assessment for instructional improvement and student growth.

  • Build confidence in your tools and processes with insights grounded in the Compassionate Assessment Framework.

“By addressing misconceptions about assessment, we build trust in the tools and processes we use to measure student success.”

– Dr. Mary Estelle Cochron