Assessment methods for distance learners
Evidence-gathering techniques
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Issues to consider for distance learners
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| Observation
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- Involve third party in undertaking observation using observation tool.
- Supplement with oral questioning (by phone) or other forms of evidence.
- Assessor can travel to learner for observation/verification and feedback on a range of evidence collection.
- Use information and communications technology, for example, webcam, blogs.
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Simulation
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- Provide written case study for short-answer responses and oral questioning.
- Use video camera or video internet technology (if available) for role-plays or simulations.
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Questioning
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- Use computer technology, written answers or phone.
- Authenticate written answers through use of third-party and/or phone discussions..
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Review of products
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- Work samples or products can be posted to assessor.
- Draft versions can be sent in advance to help with authentication.
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Portfolio
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- Portfolio evidence can be posted or emailed to the assessor.
- Proposed content and layout can be sent in advance to assist with authentication.
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Third-party feedback
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- Can be obtained through phone, post or email with third-party.
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Structured activities
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- Presentations can be made to workplace or community and then video sent to assessor.
- Learners can negotiate with workplace supervisor to undertake specified project team activities.
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Knowledge-based tests
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- These can be undertaken online with additional evidence collected to establish authenticity.
- Third party can be involved to establish authenticity and ensure that learner completes test in appropriate time and environment.
- Short-answer ‘open book’ tests can be undertaken and supplemented by other forms of evidence to show consistency of competence over time.
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Self-evaluation
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- Increased use of formative assessments, such as online self-evaluations can be used to better establish the learner’s readiness for assessment and to enhance the assessor’s ability to establish authenticity of evidence collected for the assessments.
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Adapted from ‘Assessment in the VET sector’ 2nd Ed, Department of Training and Workforce Development, Western Australia, 2016 ( can be downloaded here )
