Observations can be used to assess learners in vocational based activities. Enabling assessors to see learners performing skills in the training environment. In this video example the candidate assessor (Billy) is observing his learner (Tom) on a practical based CPR activity.
This is video three in a series of six which is designed to help anyone learn how to carry out a vocational assessment. Watch all six instalments and then carry out your own vocational observations.
Staying Out Of The Way
It is really important that when observing a learner that you give them plenty of space by standing / sitting away from the learner. This ensures that the assessor does not interfere with the practical task and also helps to create a more natural environment.
In this video example a fully qualified assessor can be seen standing in the background. Martyn is actually just checking that Billy is doing things correctly, but note how little he interferes with the whole process.
Making Notes
Remember back to the previous instalments where Tom and Billy discuss the First Aid Industry Body’s (FAIB) criteria. This criteria will form the basis of any practical observation. Billy can be seen with a clipboard making notes. These notes will be used in the subsequent stages of the assessment.
Helpful Hint - Always have all of the paperwork needed for the assessment before turning up. Print documents the night before if necessary to avoid any embarrassment on the day
Mistakes
It is often best to allow the learner to make a mistake during the assessment as opposed to stopping mid way through. The mistake can be noted subtly and then brought up whilst giving feedback.
Learners who are stopped may become flustered, forget their train of thought or even stop completely. Telling the learner that you won't be stopping them could be a useful addition to the pre observation briefing.
Stay tuned for the next instalment where Billy will back up the observation with a series of questions.
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