Strategies to achieve consistency in assessment processes
It is important to aim for consistency when evaluating students' clinical performance. Some strategies to ensure consistency in assessment include:
- Regular training in the use of the assessment instrument: Make sure you are familiar with your profession's assessment tool. Universities run regular workshops on discipline-specific assessment tools. Even if you are familiar with the assessment it may be worth attending a training course as a refresher.
- Gather evidence on the student's performance to support your evaluation.
- Use a process of assessment that is planned and evaluated: Ensure that you have scored each clinical competency with a clear score supported by evidence gathered during the placement. At the beginning of the placement, schedule in when the assessments will occur and discuss the assessment with your student.
- Continue to develop your assessment skills,using reflective practice
- Remain clear about what standard is required to pass a competency.
- If there are multiple Clinical Educators, assign one clinician as the lead assessor to coordinate the process.
- If necessary, discuss the assessment process with the University Clinical Coordinator. They can review the evidence that you have gathered and help come to a decision as to where the student should be graded.
References:
Please Note: References remain valid until superseded by later research. The resources referenced here are regularly reviewed and are considered current and relevant to the topics presented.
- Griffith University Clinical Education Resource Manual, (2012). School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Griffith University.