This dissertation, "Teachers' Perceptions of Assessment for Learning: a Study of Secondary School Teachers in Hong Kong" by Ka-man, Yau, 游嘉敏, was obtained from The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong) and is being sold pursuant to Creative Commons: Attribution 3.0 Hong Kong License. The content of this dissertation has not been altered in any way. We have altered the formatting in order to facilitate the ease of printing and reading of the dissertation. All rights not granted by the above license are retained by the author. Abstract: ABSTRACT of thesis entitled Teachers' perceptions of assessment for learning: A study of secondary school teachers in Hong Kong submitted by YAU KA MAN For the degree of Master of Education at the University of Hong Kong August, 2004 A paradigm shift in assessment, with the emphasis on assessment for learning, currently prevails in many parts of the world, including Hong Kong. Despite strong promotion, the implementation of assessment for learning around the world has not been as so widespread in schools as expected. 'Teachers' perceptions of assessment for learning' may be the most influential factor explaining reluctance and their actions in practice which are being affected by their current classroom beliefs and actions. This study provides insights into the factors affecting the implementation of assessment for learning in Hong Kong secondary schools from an examination of teachers' perceptions. In turn, suggestions for more effective implementation are explored. This study used an interpretative, qualitative approach. The subjects of the study were six secondary school teachers in Hong Kong who were classified into two polar types-conservative and innovative. As such, the study represents a study involving six cases. Interview was the main data collection method, although documents and students' work were collected, in some cases, for triangulation. Analysis followed Miles and Huberman (1984, 1994) as well as Strauss and Corbin (1990, 1998). iiThe findings of this study showed that assessment for learning was not a common practice among the secondary school teachers. Their perceptions of assessment for learning were varied and confusion of meaning seemed apparent in many cases. In contrast with the hopes in the literature and the education reform reports of Hong Kong, three of the six subjects didn't view assessment for learning as an effective tool to improve student learning. The findings also suggested some determining factors and related challenges that led to such perceptions and actions. However, 'character and personality of teachers' seemed the most influential and decisive factor. Based on these findings, measures for promoting further initiation and implementation of assessment for learning were suggested with a focus on changing the mindsets of teachers through increasing their exposure to the current assessment change. Re-prioritization of teachers' duties should also be considered and carried out seriously. iii DOI: 10.5353/th_b3028071 Subjects: Educational tests and measurements - China - Hong Kong Educational change - China - Hong Kong High school teachers - China - Hong Kong - Attitudes