Dr Sandra Knowles

BA (Hons), PhD UNSW

Sandra is a Senior Research Fellow and Assistant Director, Assessment Development, and leads the Humanities team in the Assessment and Reporting division of the Australian Council of Educational Research (ACER). Sandra has worked in test development at ACER since 2009, specialising in Literacy for school aged children. Sandra's work has primarily involved the development of national and international assessments and/or teaching resources across a range of skill areas, such as reading, speaking and listening, writing, and 21st century skills. Currently, Sandra's work is focused on the development and implementation of Learning Progressions in reading, as a way to inform formative assessment practices and improve teaching and learning in the classroom. Sandra is skilled in the areas of test and resource development, data analysis, project management, workshop and training and have a strong research background. Prior to working at ACER, Sandra was an ESL teacher in English for Academic Preparation and completed a PhD in English at the University of New South Wales.

Sandra values the importance of evidence-based assessments that have a strong foundation in current research, and are clearly and purposely dedicated to improving student learning and is most energised when working collaboratively in an environment that promotes innovation and meaningful discussion.

Award

• A.D.Hope Prize (2004) Association for the Study of Australian Literature