Assessment Learning

Something I have learned that I believe is extremely important for assessment is to be sure that the assessment has a purpose. If students are undertaking an assessment and have no idea what they are demonstrating, have no models to show that demonstration, or options to demonstrate their learning, it becomes a bit of a handcuff type situation in my opinion. Purpose then becomes what questions do you choose for an assessment? What projects should be given that offer students the ability to be creative and explore? Does the assessment allow room for reflection and growth for the student as well as the same for us as educators? If an assessment is a listless exercise then it really just becomes a time filler with nothing to offer anyone involved.