Enabling Learning and Assessment

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ENABLING AND ASSESSING LEARNING The importance of assessment Assessment in their numerous forms are vital elements in the learning process. Assessment is typically used to obtain information and used appropriately, the variety of assessment methods and tools will identify the level at which the learner is starting out on their educational journey. They support the teacher in evaluating teaching methods and help in identifying that learning has taken place. Meaningful assessment tools also recognise gaps in learning to enable adaptation in materials to better meet the needs of the student. The different forms of assessment lend themselves to supporting this process. This theory is supported when, "In the right hands, assessment can inspire, motivate and provide the feedback which is essential for targeting prompt corrective help." (Petty, 2009 p47) The assessment process can be condensed into three basic phases. 1. Initial assessment Identifying a starting point for the learner 2. Formative assessment Identifying the impact of learning and monitoring progression 3. Summative assessment To evaluate learning gained at the end of the course by comparing to the initial assessment. Types of assessment The assessment procedures that I, as the teacher undertake in relation to the programme includes diagnostic, formative and summative assessments. These are all informal assessments as my client group is of mixed ability and challenging in their nature. Kolb (1984) suggests that a cycle of learning clearly identifies the learning experiences to meet the learning aims. This concept highlights the differentiation of learners, their abilities and ages and helps the learner to identify learning gained and future learning opportunities. (Appendice 1) By undertaking a structured form of teaching and assessment, the learners may be intimidated and “turned off” by a
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