ABSTRACT

This chapter discusses how to ensure accuracy in records kept and how to analyse these records using graphs and charts. In general, therefore, graphs and charts provide a more comprehensive and better balanced view of progress than could be derived from verbal or written presentations alone. A verbal or written summary of progress is cumbersome and difficult to interpret: the more information it contains, the harder it is to assess trends or to notice subtle changes. Visual summaries of progress are also important for other reasons: they can play a role in motivating those involved in programmes of behavioural change. Graphs and charts provide a visual display of achievement and progress which serve as a permanent reminder of work which is being undertaken. Records are kept in order to evaluate progress. Sometimes the progress sought cannot be measured along these basic dimensions. Progress in skill learning may be measured by the amount of help required to perform the task.