A1 Cava

Content validity is achieved when the content of the assessment matches the educational objectives. Criterion validity is demonstrated by the ability of the test to relate to external requirements. Construct validity takes into account the educational variables, such as the native language of the students, to predict the test outcomes. Reliable assessments have consistent results; Reliability refers to the consistency of a measure. A test is considered reliable if we get the same result repeatedly.

2.2 The strengths and limitations of a range of assessment methods in relation to the individual learner needs:

Unit 2, 1.1, unit 3, 1.1,1.2,1.3- I have also learned and familiarised myself with different methods of assessment that can be used to assess competence and knowledge. They are namely: Observation of performance in the work environment and simulated environments- used in practical situation in work environment where a learner demonstrates their competence (natural performance) whilst learners are being observed. Simulation-this is similar to observation but a simulated activity is used rather than natural performance to assessed learners. Simulation is used when it has not been possible to carry out a task. Examining products of work- assesment is done on the culmination of learner 's training, e:g certificates, health and safety reports, memos, checklist for patiaent care, letters, charts. Questioning the learner, witness testimony: any other people who has been involved with the learner 's progress can write a statemen to show how the learner has successfully covered relevant aspects of the courset, learners ' personal statement: it is a reflective account where learners explains the thinking behind their decision to take certain approach or why they decided to change aspects of a task or activity ,

The assessment strategy should state how the subject should be assessed, and subsequent results recorded. It should also state the experience, professional development and qualifications that assessors should hold. Quality assurance requirements, for example internal and external verification or moderation, will also be stated. Organisation may also have an assessment policy which an assessor should familiarise him/herself with.

4) Assessment: the assessor must ensure that learner achievement and progression is checked throughout the learning process (formative assessment) and at the end of the course or programme (summative assessment). The assessment methods have to be fair, reliable and valid and linked to the planned assessment tasks. The assessor has the responsibility to ensure that learners are aware of the requirements and know how to meet the assessment criteria.

There is a large variety of assessment methods available for assessing learners’ achievements. These include observation; questioning the learner; examining product evidence; discussion; witness testimony; looking at learner statements; recognising prior learning; simulated environment; skills tests; oral and written examinations; assignments; case studies and projects. Choosing the most appropriate assessment methods is vitally important, to help and support the learner and to ensure the job of the assessor is as straightforward, reliable and problem-free as possible.

The initial and diagnostic assessments are closely linked; all information gathered from these assessments are put together to help the learner and the teacher build a clear picture of the individual. This information will then be used to agree goals and actions, personalise learning, develop an ILP, tailor session plans to meet the individual learners needs and use teaching methods to cater for all learning styles.

“Assessments should be a regular process; it might not always be formalised, but you should be observing what your learners are doing, asking questions and reviewing their progress throughout their time with you”.

Assessment is carried out through formative (checks throughout the course), ipsative (to test against previous marks), and/ or summative (at end of course) activities to help the learner see their development whilst allowing the Assessor to give valuable feedback when appropriate. It’s purpose is to measure the learners understanding of the subject against the anticipated outcomes set by the criteria.

Assessors need to determine a learner's knowledge and performance against a set of pre-defined criteria. These criteria may be set up to assess learning for an eventual formal qualification in a particular topic or job role.

The assessment process may have to be adapted to be suitable to the individual learner’s needs such as learning support for those with learning difficulties needs to eventually lead to the same outcome.

The learner must have sufficient time to prepare for an assessment. Learners must have clear instructions, dates, times and be aware of what treatments that they will be doing.

From the research they conducted, the Assessment Reform Group (2002) has identified ten key principles in relation to assessment for learning. The two that stood out when looking at assessment to meet the learners’ needs are:

Initial and diagnostic assessment can often assist the teacher in deciding on the most appropriate teaching method to use in order to meet the needs of the individual learner. An initial assessment could indicate that a learner requires additional support for a number of reasons.

4.4 explain how assessment arrangements can be adapted to meet the needs of individual learners