Ptlls_Assessment_5

UNDERSTAND THE USE OF DIFFRENT ASSESSMENTS METHODS, AND THE NEED FOR RECORD KEEPING 5.1 & 5.2 There are many different reasons for making assessments which therefore takes many forms, but put simply it means “to measure or check” whether learning has taken place. Assessment is a key part of progress throughout life’s learning circle and happens on a daily basis it can grade or assess a person’s skill, knowledge or whether a specified task can be achieved within a certain time frame, with personal goals and achievements met. Assessment generally falls into two types: Formative and Summative assessments. Formative assessments are a continuous process that is used to provide feedback to the learner’s specific level, it makes the learner aware of their current achievements as well as myself being able to self assess my role as a trainee teacher as to the effectiveness of my own teaching to that particular learner which may incorporate changing my particular style. Summative assessments are usually given at the end of the course and are given with a chance to continue on further. It references all formal objectives and overall evaluation of the ability and achievements in any learning programme and is formally recorded, however this can be done through the course or at the end of a training session. It can however be said that initial assessments can both summative and formative if there is sufficient feedback and evaluation offered. There are many different ways to assess the learner with varying results, examples of assessment methods used that are widely used, Self Assessment This improves performance in which ever area you are teaching in and is an ongoing process throughout your career, or as a learner is something you can take from your formal / ongoing education at any age through into your current workplace. Performance Observation is a key factor in this it is an excellent way to assess practical work or a laid down process against a set criteria or standard. Essay This shows the learners understanding of the subject they have been taught, this includes discuss, show, explain and are usually used as a formal summative assessment. Exams This can include a written or verbal test, or an observation that is in a controlled environment it is a definitive way of showing the learners knowledge, this is a formal summative test which results in a formal qualification i.e., O and A levels, NVQ etc. Observation This method is used for assessment competency in a particular skill or activity to set standards and is the preferred method for NVQ’s, it requires the assessor to observe the learner in their workplace whilst they are carrying out the specific job role against a set of criteria making sure the learner hits the required standards through a check box scenario. Whatever method you use the formative assessment should be used for you and the learner to recognise what the learner has achieved and gives them a bench mark as to what can be achieved the aims and targets and an inner goal to continue achieving and improve their ongoing knowledge. 5.3 Record keeping is vital and essential part of the process and in most cases is a legal requirement for certain examination criteria, and job progress throughout a career, it can provide a reference, evaluation, evidence, standardization and can be documented in various ways for example product evidence, electronically and paper based. As a trainee teacher my records are kept in a locked filling cabinet in paper form and backed up electronically on my lap top which is password encrypted. I understand my responsibilities of how important recordkeeping is to my current job role as a trainee teacher. A Practical guide to successful teaching in the lifelong learning sector. Mary & Jim Gould 2009