Assessing a Candidate’s performance through three activities needs pre-planning and organising.
MTCS require there to be at least three activities that will have been Assessed, as good range of tasks will provide us with a well-rounded view of the Candidate’s ability and experience.
Keep in mind the overall Holistic Assessment approach – combining Competencies into activities will allow for a much more efficient and effective assessment process.
New opportunities will present themselves throughout trips and even Assessments, when this happens you should refer back to the Assessment Plan and update where necessary.
Observation is the best form of Assessment for determining a Candidate’s natural skill level. Observation enables you to watch the task being carried out and then also see the end result. This therefore gives an overall picture of the extent of ability of the Candidate.
Before beginning your Assessment by Observation, it is important to ensure all involved personnel are aware and ready, and that the documentation you need is to hand also.
Personnel could include:
- Team members and colleagues
- Clients
- Project managers
- Witnesses
- Assessors
Documentation will include:
- Performance criteria
- Projection documentation
- Operational documentation
Our TIPS for an effective Assessment through Observation:
- Remain clear and focussed on what is being assessed and the Criteria that needs to be met – checklists are a great way to stay on track!
- Communicate clearly with the candidate to ensure they know what Performance Criteria is being assessed.
- Intentionally remain unobtrusive during Assessment – avoid direct eye contact with the Candidate and others involved, you need to assess their natural performance.
- Reassure the Candidate that they can raise questions throughout Assessment.
- Ensure there is some time at the end for questions and interim feedback.
- Always be aware of new opportunities that present themselves for further criteria to be assessed. You and your Candidates should continually be on the lookout for these opportunities.
