# 3.5 Outcome/objective setting, assessing learning needs, reviewing and assessment of progress

The following points outline the characteristics of assessment which promote learning. Assessment should involve:

- Sharing learning goals with students
- Clarifying and helping students know and recognise the standards they are aiming for
- Providing students with support in self-assessment and providing feedback which helps students to recognise their next steps and how to take them
- Nurture confidence that students can improve and involves both the Practice Supervisor/Practice Assessor and students in reviewing and reflecting on assessment information

Assessment is a key component of learning because it helps learners learn. When students can see how they are progressing during their practice learning experience they are able to determine what areas they need to work on. Assessment can help with motivating students and encourages them to work harder.

Just as assessment helps students, assessment also can help you as the Practice Supervisor or Practice Assessor. Continuous assessment allows you to gauge if your teaching has been effective and if you need to adjust your teaching style if you feel this will benefit the student’s learning. Assessment also allows the Practice Supervisor and Practice Assessor to ensure students learn what they need to know in order to meet their learning outcomes.

## Activity 15

Consider in your role as a Practice Supervisor or Practice Assessor what are the kind of skills and attributes you will be assessing your student on? Add your thoughts to the table below.

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Skills | Attributes
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### Discussion

There are many facets of student assessment but here are some suggestions. They are not exclusive, and you will no doubt have come up with your own ideas:

> - Practical/technical skills
> - Communication/interpersonal skills
> - Organisational skills
> - Knowledge base/theoretical knowledge
> - Safe practice
> - Critical thinking skills
> - Ability to function as a team member
> - Leadership
> - Confidence
> - Professional behaviour and attitude
> - Accountability
> - Autonomy
> - Professionalism

(NES, 2000)

In your role as a Practice Supervisor or Practice Assessor when assessing skills and attributes it is very important to consider the student’s stage of training when carrying out any form of assessment. A Year 1 student in their first placement will not be performing at the same level as a Year 2 or Year 3 student (NES, 2020). The required standard for each level of student will be made explicit in the student’s practice assessment document (PAD) which you need to make yourself familiar with.

OpenLearn - Practice supervision and assessment in nursing
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