1.1Explain the function of assessment in learning and development
Assessment is carried out to ensure that learning has taken place. It measures the learner’s knowledge and skills in their learning area. Assessment encourages learners to ask questions on anything they have not fully understood, as learners know that they will have to prove their knowledge and understanding to the standards of the awarding body.
Learning and development are both connected. The learner needs guidance to understand what it is they have to learn, if they are on track and how they may improve. Assessment is essential for this to happen. There will be observation, teaching one to one to assess whether the learner has met the standards and if they are occupationally competent and to assess their current knowledge and skills.
If a training session has been delivered and no assessment has taken place then you cannot be sure that learning has taken place. If you do not assess the learner you cannot know their level of skill. Formative assessment is useful throughout the course and it gives the learner feedback which they can use to improve their future performance. It also allows the learner to build on their strengths and learn from mistakes by listening to the assessor’s feedback.
Assessment plays an important role in the education process as it keeps track of the work undertaken which can then allow for future targets to be set for the learner. It also helps to motivate the learner through feedback and constructive criticism where required. The assessor can also give timely information on the learner’s progress through doing regular reviews. The specific and timely feedback by the assessor helps the learner to demonstrate their understanding and development of skills also helping the learner to prove their competence.
2.2 Define the key concepts and principles of assessment.
One of the key