External quality assurance functions in learning and development assessments

External Quality Assurance of Assessment

Explain the Functions of External Quality Assurance of Assessments in Learning and Development

The primary goal for conducting a visit for the purpose of providing a quality assurance assessment of learning and development, it is essential to determine that the learner needs have been identified. The assessor should exit the initial assessment visit with a clear idea of what the learner is expected to know and what gaps exist between those objectives and the present functioning of the leaner. Prior to visiting the actual site where the assessment will be conducted, the assessor can elect to review information about the vocation itself, the demands of the workplace, and the learner's development profile. The planning stage also provides opportunity for the assessor to articulate how both formative and summative assessment can occur. This is the point at which the assessor determines if simulation of work skills is acceptable, according to the standard established for the assessment, or if assessment will focus on observation of the actual work performed by the learner in the performance of his or her duties. Specifically, the assessor will be looking for ways to ensure that the assessment process is characterized by fairness, accuracy, reliability, validity, and conformity with the established assessment strategy for the qualification that is being assessed. The assessor's sphere of influence extends to monitoring the use of technology and other trends associated with the field of endeavor. Moreover, the assessor must remain cognizant of the underlying levels of quality with regard to the training delivery and the implementation of quality assurance within the organization. The overarching concern of the assessor must be to ensure that the execution of the assessment processes are accurate and consistent with respect to criteria, standards, and outcome interpretations.

Question 2. Evaluate the Key concepts and principles of external quality assurance of assessments.

Seeds of the same principles that apply to an application of quality improvement or empirical research can be found in the processes that an assessor undertakes in their role as an external quality assurer. The concept of a sampling plan or sampling strategy is basic to the assessor's tasks. Considering the empirical guidelines for a sample -- with appropriate modifications -- can help the assessor consider constructs such as sampling error, reliability, and validity. The observation and review that constitutes the sample must be bound by standards that ensure consistency and fairness. In other words, the assessor should seek to avoid situations in which anecdotal information substitutes for appropriate sampling procedures. Moreover, the assessor must underpin the assessment process with a regard for other participants and stakeholders that conveys and, in fact, manifests support of those individuals and organizations, and that also identifies strategies that result in development opportunities. The receipt of feedback form stakeholders and participants is important to the capacity building that results in improved practice of assessment functions. It is incumbent upon the assessor to conceive of ways to record and report the subtle but important observations that can be used to benefit the organization and its participants. The role, then, of the assessor extends to that of a consultant of sorts, given that the assessor has the perspective of an external entity and is thereby privy to a level of objectivity that might not otherwise be readily available to the organization. That this is a sensitive undertaking -- akin to walking a tightrope -- should be apparent. Yet, the assessor needs to strive to be comfortable with this manner of relating to the organization, as it has long-term benefits.

Question 3. Evaluate the roles of practitioners involved in the quality assurance process.