Although we have already touched upon some of the assessment methods within the new EPA standards, we thought it would be a good idea to go into a bit more detail regarding these. The 6 main types of assessment method are:
- Observations;
- Practicals;
- Tests;
- Projects;
- Presentations, and;
- Discussions.
Let’s have a look at the skills each of these methods are suitable for assessing, and the advantages of each method of assessment.
Observations
An observation is when the IEPA (Independent End-Point Assessor) watches an Apprentice undertake a task within the workplace, as part of their normal duties. This means that the task should naturally occur within the Apprentice’s job. The IEPA can ask questions throughout the observation, or at the end. They can then conclude whether the apprentice is showing occupational competence.
This method of assessment is best for assessing knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) all together at the same time. Not only that, but it’s also good for assessing their practical skills. Observations are not the right method of assessment for occupations where skills can’t be observed as easily, or where work occurs in dangerous environments.
Some of the advantages of carrying out observations include:
- It is the best assessment method to be carried out in the workplace. It gives assurance to employers about the competence of the apprentice.
- The results produced are reliable, valid and authentic.
- It is cost-effective for the employer. The apprentice will be familiar with the environment so has a higher chance of passing the assessment.
Practical Assessments
It is easy to confuse observations with practical assessments; but the main difference between the two is that a practical assessment is where a set task is completed within a simulated environment. The Apprentice is able to demonstrate their knowledge and skills of how to do something. A practical assessment is often followed up with questioning by the IEPA, during or after the test.
Again, this method of assessment tests the knowledge, skills and behaviours of the apprentice, but in a more objective way. As the test is carried out within a different environment to the workplace, it helps to show that the apprentice fully understands how to apply their knowledge in a different circumstance.
Some of the advantages of practical assessments include:
- Apprentices are tested under controlled conditions, which could reflect challenges that may appear during the End-Point Assessment.
- The assessment can be put together fairly quickly.
Tests
A test provides a less holistic approach to assessing an apprentice’s understanding. This is because it only really focuses on the knowledge aspect. There are two main test formats: multiple-choice and written response tests. We will assume that you already know what a multiple-choice test is; but a written test can take several different formats. They often consist of a variety of types of questions including open-ended questions which require a longer format answer, or scenario-based questions which often require further elaboration.
Multiple-choice questions are great for assessing knowledge. They give the Apprentice the opportunity to choose between several options that could be present within a practical environment. Written tests are better for assessing skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and general written communication. They require the Apprentice to justify their answers which backs up their understanding of the topic.
Some of the advantages of tests include:
- Tests are easy to put together, and once created they are cheap to replicate.
- They can be completed online / remotely providing controls are put in place.
- If tests are carried out under examination conditions, they are more reliable than other methods of assessment.
- Standardisation is easier as everyone taking the test are exposed to the same questions, enabling direct comparisons across the country.
Professional Discussion
A professional discussion is a two-way conversation between the apprentice and the IEPA. It is used to assess the in-depth understanding the apprentice has of their work. The idea is that a professional discussion is led by the Assessor; however, both parties are required to listen and participate in equal amounts. It allows the apprentice to give a deeper insight into how their competency aligns with the KSBs.
This method of assessment is the best for assessing the in-depth knowledge an apprentice has of a subject. It is also a good alternative when occupations can’t be observed in practice. Or, if the working environment makes an observation difficult.
Some of the advantages of a professional discussion include:
- It can be used as a supplementary method of assessment to allow an apprentice to elaborate on their understanding of a particular topic.
- Professional discussions can be recorded, which can help when it comes to Internal Quality Assurance.
- A professional discussion can cover a large part of the role and the occupational standard.
Interview
An interview is where the IEPA asks the apprentice a series of pre-planned questions, in order to assess their competence against the KSBs. Unlike a professional discussion, there is no scope for a two-way conversation. The apprentice is just required to answer the questions in a way that demonstrates they have met the assessment criteria.
Interviews are the best method of assessment to get an idea of the apprentice’s knowledge and understanding of a subject. The skills and behaviours usually assessed during an interview are often not visible during an EPA observation; so, the two methods of assessment are often used in harmony. Interviews are also useful when a portfolio of evidence has not been submitted, in order to allow the KSBs to be fully assessed.
Some of the advantages of an interview include:
- It is a great supplementation to other methods of assessment to build upon any criteria that may not have been covered. For example, an observation may not allow the apprentice to demonstrate their knowledge to their full potential.
- Interviews can be recorded which helps with moderation of the apprenticeship.
- An interview is a great way of collecting qualitative information for the independent Assessor.
Projects
A project in regards to EPA is carried out after the Gateway process, and involves the apprentice completing a significant piece of work. This could be in the form of a written essay, or in a practical scenario producing an item that the IEPA can review and assess. Not only should the project meet the needs of the business, it should also be relevant to the role of the apprentice and allow them to demonstrate the key KSBs needed for the EPA. The scope of the project will need to be discussed in advance and agreed between the employer and the EPAO.
The main reason a project would be used as a method of assessment for the EPA over the other methods is if a work cycle has a long duration. Usually an observation would be carried out, but if the apprentice is working on something over a couple of months then the best method to assess this is a final project. It also allows for a very broad set of KSBs to be evidenced post-gateway.
Some of the advantages of projects include:
- The project can produce something of real benefit to the apprentice’s employer.
- This method of assessment is a really holistic approach as the apprentice can also showcase a wider range of practical and analytical skills alongside the KSBs.
So there you have it; the advantages of some of the key methods of assessment used within End Point Assessment. If you would like any further information on any of the topics we have mentioned today, please feel free to call us on 01205 805155.