This book transforms our current understanding of assessment practice in different educational settings and cultures.  Drawing upon the resources of language games and critical realism the authors argue for an innovative engagement with the philosophical, theoretical and practical foundations of assessment. What is the connection between learning, motivation and assessment? Is assessment for learning a motorway or a blind alley for improved learning outcomes? How can creativity be assessed through the eyes of the connoisseur? How can assessment cultures be understood as forms of life and language games? Do new forms of society transform our assessment practices? A critical appreciation of the work of Royce Sadler is offered for assessment specialists.