ABSTRACT
This chapter presents some of the issues in the area of assessment of learning: assessment – explanation of basic terms and principles; domains of learning; and features of assessments. From the learner's perspective, clear objectives, framed as learning outcomes, help them to decide whether a course of study is for them and will suit their learning needs, help plan their study, choose what aspects to go into in depth and how to prepare for assessments. To be clear about what teachers are asking their learners to do, teachers need to consider which domain they are assessing and at which level – hence the importance of the wording of the objectives. Encouraging critical reflection and self-assessment might help learners to develop through these higher levels just as much as working towards a summative assessment. Assessors must position themselves to be able to accumulate enough evidence to make a judgement, since not all practice can be observed.
