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The Power of Assessment

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The Power of Assessment

 

Assessment can motivate effort and make learning visible. It can also create stress or distort behavior. The difference is in how you design it. Here’s a practical way to use assessment to help—not hinder—learning in your programs.

What “assessment” really means

  • Formative: low‑stakes checks during the session to guide teaching and practice.
  • Summative: a simple end check when the contract or compliance requires it.
  • Evidence, not just tests: demos, teach‑backs, brief scenarios, peer feedback, and self‑assessments all count.

Match assessment to outcomes (and people)

Start with the behavior you want on the job. Then pick a quick check that proves it.

  • Skill: run a short role‑play or demo against a 3‑point checklist.
  • Knowledge: five well‑written questions, or a 60‑second teach‑back.
  • Attitude/awareness: reflection prompt + one action they will try next week.
  • Preferences: use VAK Learning Styles Questionnaire to vary methods.

Want a refresher on writing tight objectives? See Writing Proper Training Objectives.

Low‑stress techniques that work

Entry/exit tickets

One question at the door: “What will you try first?” Easy to scan for themes.

Teach‑backs

Learners explain a concept in 60–90 seconds. You check clarity and gaps.

Peer mini‑reviews

2–3 criteria, one example each. Keep it developmental. Tips here: Peer Reviews.

Scenario sprints

Small groups solve a client‑like case; share the top two moves and a pitfall.

Design for fairness and clarity

  • Use a short rubric (1–5) with examples of what a 3 vs 5 looks like.
  • State the purpose: learning first; certification only if required.
  • Offer alternatives (write, speak, demo) so different strengths show.
  • Time‑box and keep items relevant to the job. No trivia.
  • Separate feedback from consequences where possible.

Use the data to plan next steps

When you must certify

If your contract requires a pass mark (e.g., 80%), use a short, scenario‑based check aligned to the objectives. Keep records, explain retake rules, and offer targeted practice before a retry.

Related tools & resources

FAQs

Won’t assessment raise anxiety and hurt learning?
High‑stakes tests can. Low‑stakes, clear, short checks paired with feedback usually boost attention and recall without the stress.
How many questions do I need?
Enough to sample the objective—often 5–7 items or a 2‑minute demo. Depth beats volume.
Should I grade peer feedback?
No. Keep peer input developmental. If you use it, pair with a rubric and examples. See the Peer Reviews guide.
What if learners have different needs?
Offer choice: speak, write, or demo. Use larger fonts, high contrast, and simple language. Record alternatives if helpful.

About the Author

Written by the Training Course Material team, creators of practical, customizable resources for trainers worldwide.



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