The purpose of an initial assessment is to firstly, make sure that a learner can enter the programme of study at a level that is appropriate to them. Secondly, these assessments also allow the learner to be able to plan their individual achievable learning goals. These initial assessments will become the framework of learners ILP’s (individual Learning Plans). They will also ensure that the learner provider and tutor can identify the gaps in learning sooner rather than later. “It should go without saying that providers want the best for learners, it’s just as important that learners should know right from the start that they are entitled to the best for themselves”. (readingroom ,online) This demonstrates the importance of the initial assessment and its results have on an individual learner’s development.
Initial Assessment are what they are, they are just the beginning and become a tailor made plan which then becomes a vital part of the teaching and learning for the learner and provider alike. “Assessment helps to set clear expectations for standards and achievement. (CFBT, 2011,p10 .) Initial assessment therefore ensures that there can be progression as it also allows learners themselves to see and develop on strengths and weaknesses from the outset. One can also suggest that these initial assessments are a motivational tool too, so that not only can the provider plan for the end goal but also that a learner can readily see that the results from initial assessments are used to determine achievable goals thus seeing that the overall course outcomes are achievable.
There are several methods in which initial assessments can be ascertained. An initial interview gives a basic knowledge
References: Books Gavin Reid, 2007 CFBT include Curriculum Framework 2011. (Accessed 17/01/2012) Gardner, j, 2006. Assessment and learning. 1st Ed. SAGE. Publications Ltd. Reid.G, 2007. Motivating Learners in the Classroom: Ideas and Strategies. 1st Ed. Sage Publications Ltd. www sources http://www.bksb.co.uk/aboutus.aspx (accessed 18/01/2012) http://www.creativeassessment.org.uk/asstheory/documents/AssessmentTheorynotes_000.pdf (accessed January 18/01/2012) http://www.theia.org.uk/ilr/ (Accessed 17/01/2012) http://members.shaw.ca/priscillatheroux/motivation.html (Accessed 18/01/2012) http://readingroom.lsc.gov.uk/lsc/National/nat-initialassessment-pu.pdf