1 Professional Discussion An Additional Method November 2007

2 Objectives Identify issues, concerns and opportunities Recognise the value of professional discussion as a useful assessment method Understand the requirements for using professional discussion as an additional method of assessment November 2007

3 Definition of Professional Discussion A structured review of practice between the candidate and an assessor which explores key aspects of the candidate’s understanding of their work role. A clearly identified assessment method, which is agreed and recorded in advance within the candidate’s assessment plan Different from: - reflective accounts - questioning November 2007

4 Confirming candidate knowledge and interpretation of the legislation and/or theory which underpins practice Confirming candidate understanding of work policies, procedures or practice Enabling candidate to provide confirmation of competence in restricted or confidential settings In the final stages of assessment to capture any ‘gaps’, inconsistencies or uncertainties Using Professional Discussion Situations when professional discussion might be considered an appropriate assessment method: November 2007

5 Why use a Professional Discussion? It is a holistic way of using evidence Professional discussion can cover lots of standards at one time so is therefore cost effective Good use of assessment time Particularly useful to provide evidence that shows that the candidate knows and understands the principles which support practice, policies, procedures and legislation eg confidentiality, data protection, organisational policy and procedure.

6 Consider the following Appropriateness of use relating to candidate’s level and background Preparation of assessors Availability of media equipment Expertise in operating media equipment Provision of an explicit audit trail November 2007

7 Audio tape, video, mini disk (the media available keeps growing!) Recorded evidence does not have to be fully transcribed onto a written record However, there must be a supporting record which allows verifiers (IV & EV) to access the claims to competence accurately e.g. referenced to the standards and position on the media used noted. Recording requirements for Professional Discussion Electronic recording: November 2007

8 Must be in sufficient detail to allow the evidence to be sampled and verified Must be referenced to the standards to allow access to the verifiers (IV & EV) Must be legible Recording requirements for Professional Discussion Written recording: November

9 Make notes on the conduct of this professional discussion Discuss this in your group Prepare feedback and guidance for the assessor to assist when carrying out the next professional discussion Activity 2- Carrying out a Professional Discussion Watch the video clip November

10 Consider the environment and how it will be managed Ensure no interruptions and maintain privacy Plan for sufficient time to carry out the whole activity Ensure the recording equipment is fit for purpose and in working order Ensure equipment provides means to identify or mark evidence location e.g. counter Ensure an audit trail – tape/video with auditable log or a written summary Planning a Professional Discussion Preparation of resources November

11 Detailed assessment planning Ensure that candidate knows the areas to be covered and can prepare in advance Date, time and location must be agreed Confirm what evidence the candidate will need to bring to the session or use as a focus for the discussion Ensure candidate is comfortable with the use of the alternative recording method and if not, allow them some practice opportunities Planning a Professional Discussion Preparation of the candidate November 2007

12 Ensure sufficient record of content to enable IV/EV sampling and auditing Consider how to manage discussion and recording without interfering with the flow/thought process Have plenty of record sheets and spare pens, etc. Ensure claims to competence are referenced to the standards as with the electronic recording approach Planning a Professional Discussion - Written recording November 2007

13 Introduce the session Managing a Professional Discussion - Electronic recordings - name candidate, assessor, site and date - qualification, related units and elements Manage the process – keep the discussion focused Avoid talking too much or leading the candidate Keep within the requirements of the standards Complete the written record to support access to the electronic record. This should be signed and dated by candidate and assessor November 2007

14 Recap Professional Discussion Must be planned to ensure fairness to candidate Is not a question & answer session Is a technique requiring skills & preparation Must be accessible to an IV or EV Is NEVER a replacement for any required unit assessment method e.g. observation November 2007

15 Plenary Q & A November 2007