“Assessment is the term given to checking that learning has occurred” Wilson (2014) there are many types of assessment and it is important to ensure the most appropriate method is used for your learners
Formal assessment
“Formal assessment activities usually count towards your learners’ achievement of their qualification” Gravells (2012)
Assignments are a method of formal assessment as these care completed after learning has taken place. These can be used throughout the course to make up part of a unit and these are marked against set criteria. Assignments are a good way of assessing Business Studies as they can contain facts and referencing which is important as business is made up of facts and figures rather than opinions. Assignments are useful for learners as they can be submitted and referred back so they can be improved and can sometimes reach a higher grade. However, sometimes assignments may have to be lengthy and have a high word count which some learners can struggle with. Assignments can be adapted to individual learning need as they can be typed rather than handwritten which can help learners. Deadlines can also be negotiated on an individual basis if learners are struggling to meet these. Also within Business assignments are graded either Pass, Merit or Distinction which is good for learners as they all work at different abilities within a level meaning that there is stretch and challenge involved for more able learners.
Examinations are also a type of formal assessment which can be done during the course as modules or at the end as a final exam. Exams provide a different grade for each learner, such as Pass, Merit and Distinction which shows the varied abilities of the same learners sitting the same exams. Within Business exams are a good way to test knowledge and understanding. As Business Studies encompasses many different subjects such as: