We have analysed the statutory curriculum in order to provide qualifications based on good practice that is expected in Key Stages 1, 2 and 3 but provides no reward to the learner. We add value to this at low cost by accrediting such work with formal qualifications.
The INGOT web site supports administration and uses coursework and awarding body set tasks in an innovative way to reduce bureaucracy while maintaining quality and sound educational principles.
The traditional way to assess coursework in the UK is to collect portfolios of evidence choosing samples for moderation and keeping paper based records. There is generally no relationship between the formally set tests and tasks performed under controlled conditions and coursework other than aggregating the marks. There are then complaints that students haven't done the coursework themselves. Yet coursework is essential for valid assessment in many practical subjects. It makes learning and assessment more relevant and motivates the students.
The Learning Machine method is to combine coursework and set tests. We accredit the assessors and they make judgements against the criteria by direct observation. These judgements are verified and moderated by short Awarding Body set tests and tasks. Assessing against the criteria during normal learning acts as a check that the learner is ready to take a test screening out those likely to fail. The tests provide the moderation evidence for assessor judgements so there is no need to collect further formal evidence.
Where tests are inappropriate evidence can be provided from the learners own internet based records such as an e-portfolio or BLOG where assessors and moderators can view the work directly from a web browser. The quality assurance procedures are designed to improve over time by checking how well test outcomes correlate with coursework judgements and providing feedback to assessors via the web site. This contributes to staff development as well as consistent standards. We do not set tests that disrupt timetables, but ones that can be done in standard length lessons - the sort of thing that teachers would be doing to monitor progress in any case.
So we are making the most efficient use possible of the normal work flows that need to take place anyway. We enable the school to print certificates locally via the web site again reducing administration and giving greater immediacy for learners and parents. Certificates can be verified directly on the web site, no need to write to us or pay any fees. This means learners can directly demonstrate to employers that they have achieved the certificate - forgery of paper based certificates is all too easy in the information age.
