Princilples of Assessment Unit 12 Pttls
Julie Capon Unit 012
Principles of assessment in lifelong learning
The types of assessment a trainer will use in lifelong learning include initial, diagnostic, independent assessment, formative, summative, internal, external, formal and informal assessment. “Assessment is a way to find out if learning has taken place.” Tummons (2007: p5)
Gravells (2011:p91), describes the assessment cycle in the following terms; “the initial assessment, assessment planning, assessment activity, assessment decision and feedback and finally, review of progress”. The cycle restarts at the initial assessment with the next subject or unit of the qualification. To ensure that there is consistency and fairness through out the assessment cycle, standards and practice of assessors must be agreed and be appropriate to the subject or course.
The initial assessment could include an application form and interview for a place on a course. Tummons (2007:p13) states, “this process of selection is in itself a form of initial diagnostic assessment, that identifies the characteristics, competencies, skills or knowledge of the learner.” Appropriate initial assessment activities can also give an indication of any special assessment requirements. Initial assessments can be a useful tool in identifying if the learner has chosen the right course or programme of study. Initial assessments also ensure that the learner is not attempting a level above their current capabilities. “Diagnostic tests can be used to ascertain information regarding maths, English or ICT.” Gravells (2011:p41). They can also be used to help compile and individual learning plan (ILP)
When planning assessments, it is essential that the trainer follows the awarding bodies’ guidelines and that suitable types and methods of assessment are agreed with colleagues and learners. “Assessment planning should be inclusive to all and always be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-bound,” (SMART) Gravells (2011:p94).
Principles of assessment in lifelong learning
The types of assessment a trainer will use in lifelong learning include initial, diagnostic, independent assessment, formative, summative, internal, external, formal and informal assessment. “Assessment is a way to find out if learning has taken place.” Tummons (2007: p5)
Gravells (2011:p91), describes the assessment cycle in the following terms; “the initial assessment, assessment planning, assessment activity, assessment decision and feedback and finally, review of progress”. The cycle restarts at the initial assessment with the next subject or unit of the qualification. To ensure that there is consistency and fairness through out the assessment cycle, standards and practice of assessors must be agreed and be appropriate to the subject or course.
The initial assessment could include an application form and interview for a place on a course. Tummons (2007:p13) states, “this process of selection is in itself a form of initial diagnostic assessment, that identifies the characteristics, competencies, skills or knowledge of the learner.” Appropriate initial assessment activities can also give an indication of any special assessment requirements. Initial assessments can be a useful tool in identifying if the learner has chosen the right course or programme of study. Initial assessments also ensure that the learner is not attempting a level above their current capabilities. “Diagnostic tests can be used to ascertain information regarding maths, English or ICT.” Gravells (2011:p41). They can also be used to help compile and individual learning plan (ILP)
When planning assessments, it is essential that the trainer follows the awarding bodies’ guidelines and that suitable types and methods of assessment are agreed with colleagues and learners. “Assessment planning should be inclusive to all and always be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-bound,” (SMART) Gravells (2011:p94).
References: Gravells, A (2010) Passing PTLLS Assessments. Exeter. Learning Matters Ltd. Gravells, A (2011). Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector. Exeter: Learning Matters Ltd. Oxford Centre for Staff and Learning Development OCSLD (2002) Oxford Brookes University Learning and Teaching Briefing Papers Series www.brookes.ac.uk/services/ocsd/ Tummons J (2007). Assessing Learning in the Lifelong Learning Sector, 2nd Ed, Exeter: Learning Matters Ltd.