Abstract

What are the differences between a psychometric approach to assessment, found more commonly in the US, and one that is embedded in a broader view of curriculum aims and linked to teaching, as in the UK? The UK examination system depends on the judgements of subject experts, and yet it is claimed that that no expert can judge to sufficient levels of accuracy when students’ futures are at stake. Could UK awarding bodies learn more from a more ‘scientific’ approach in the development of our examinations? Or might an over-reliance on standardised testing principles lead to a reductive style of examining which is in conflict with the UK’s tradition?

This seminar is free to University of Cambridge staff and students, £30 for others

This seminar is part of the Assessment Principles series of seminars presented by Andrew Watts, a Principal Consultant for the Cambridge Assessment Network Division. The series focuses on five key topics in assessment: the purposes of assessment; the relationship between assessment and learning; the development of assessments; the validity and the reliability of assessments. Each session addresses one of these topics. Though the topics are the same each year, up-to-date issues are discussed which focus on recent news stories or which represent the latest thinking in that area. The series is for those who want to take a broad view of the field of educational assessment, in company with others working in the field. Participants will be able to share their own experiences and perceptions, and to reflect on those of others. A certificate is awarded for attendance at all five sessions (contact the Network team for details).

Dates for 2012 are:

8 March: What is the purpose of public assessments (Cambridge) 12 April: What is the purpose of public assessments (Coventry) 10 May: How can assessment support learning? (Cambridge) 12 July: Measurement or judgement: is assessing an art or a science (Cambridge) 13 September: How can we ensure the value of the assessments we create? (Cambridge) 11 October: Can the public have confidence in national assessments? (Coventry) 8 November: Can the public have confidence in national assessments? (Cambridge)