ABSTRACT
The term ‘assessment’ is used for the processes and instruments applied to measure the learner’s achievements. Assessments are a statement to learners about what is important. If we say a subject will be assessed and make it a hurdle to pass to make progress, then trainees will study it, whether it is relevant or not! Assessments and course objectives therefore need to be aligned to help build towards the overall aims of the course. Information retention may be tested by a multiple-choice questionnaire (MCQ). Higher levels from comprehension to evaluation can be tested by extended matching questions, modified essay questions, scholarly essays, portfolio-based assessments and vivas. Encouraging critical reflection and self-assessment might assist in developing learners through these higher levels just as much as working towards a summative assessment. Consider MCQ assessments for communication skills; they are very reliable, equally performing learners will score equally, but are likely to have low validity.
