Explain the Function of Assessment in Learning and Development - Essay Example

Through assessment, instructors can better decide whether a decision based on a specific education is sound. There are three main types of assessments, namely:

This assessment process entails the creation of an individual learning plan (ILP) for all learners to be assessed. With this evaluation plan, the assessor then sets initial benchmarks, as appropriate, for each learner, by reviewing the initial learner information provided. The central objective of every Initial Learning Plan in the initial assessment is to evaluate and determine each learner’s weaknesses, strengths plus any preferred learning styles.

The ILP also helps an assessor to compare the actual performance of each learner, against the benchmarks set to determine the learners’ performance, and track progress. When this process is conducted thoroughly, the learning outcomes closely match the set goals, and the actual performance also keeps up with the pre-determined benchmarks.  

On the other hand, formative assessments make use of various procedures during learning processes to accommodate the changing of learning and teaching activities, while still enhancing the learning process as required. The formative assessment provides feedback to an assessor to ensure initial learning activities are modified with the passage of time to best solve the deficiencies and gaps that arise while still enlightening all learners of the dynamism present in the learning environment.

The assessment process above also facilitates the giving of feedback to every assessor and the individual learner. Accordingly, each instructor knows what to modify to better improve the learner’s experience. Moreover, formative learning takes place throughout the course/program of study and is typically conducted during teaching by the assessors.

This form of assessment looks into the extent of the learner’s development based on pre-determined points at the end of a course. The assessor summarizes the skills acquired at the current level, and if required, provides grades of the assessment. There are many ways to conduct this assessment, including:

• Written Papers;
• Term papers;
• Dissertation;
• Group presentation;
• Multi-Choice exams.

Towards promoting learning and development, initial summative assessments measure and records all achievements attributable to learners, and this is reflected in the overall summative assessment. According to the required criteria by the assessing body, any achievement, to be considered, must contribute directly to learning in the subject area and meet the set standards for the purposes of quality assurance.