What assessment methods can be used for NVQ languages?
This can be included in the professional discussion.

Observation
A very common assessment method where the assessor observes the candidate completing the task. This is a valid method because it can be used at any time both in the classroom, in the workplace or perhaps on a foreign trip or a visit to a simulated language learning environment such as the Europa Centre or the British Airways Community Learning Centre. It is reliable because the assessor can readily observe that the candidate is working independently for example and can judge, for example the accuracy and pronunciation in spoken tasks. It is a fair method because the assessor can devote a similar amount of time observing each candidate. Observation of the candidate using reference materials to complete tasks allows the assessor to judge whether or not he or she needs further guidance on dictionary use for example. Download a sample observation form (rtf 5 KB).

Product
There are various types of product evidence which may appear in an NVQ languages portfolio. Some examples could be:

• Handwritten or word-processed tasks such as e-mails, correspondence, reports, leaflets or brochures.
• Responses to listening and reading assessments
• Video clips of the candidate performing a role play or presentation
• Audio tape, CD or digital recording of the candidate performing a role play or presentation
• Web pages, PowerPoint presentations or similar designed by the candidate.
  

Products are valid and reliable because they provide evidence which anyone can examine and are a lasting record of competence. Products are a fair assessment method because all candidates in a teaching group should have access to the same instructions and resources to produce them.

Simulation
NVQ portfolios commonly contain a range of simulated contexts in which the candidate assumes various roles using his/her language skills (for example working in an office, working in a restaurant, arranging business travel).

Simulation is a valid assessment method  because it gives candidates an experience of really being  in a working situation using the target language. It is reliable because the teacher normally watches the candidate carrying out a simulated task (eg role play or written simulation).  It is fair to all because not all candidates may have the opportunity of being in a real working environment in this country or in the target language country.

Peer assessment
Peer assessment is valid, reliable and fair because it enables candidates to see what their peers are doing and compare their own work against that of a peer. When using peer assessment careful guidance needs to be given to the candidates so that they are clear what to do.

Question and answer
Questioning the candidate can give the assessor further information and check that the candidate has understood the assessment fully particularly if they have not given full answers. Questioning is a valid and reliable assessment method as the assessor can gain an immediate answer from the candidate to check that the National Language Standards have been met. 

Judgement of others/witness testimony
Other teachers, foreign language assistants or supervisors in a work placement could write a statement describing what the candidate has achieved. In order to do this effectively, they would need an understanding of the National Language Standards and levels and this would need to be explained to them in advance. They could use a checklist of criteria from the standards to assist them with this. In order to give supporting evidence to a witness statement, the candidate could also be video or audio recorded performing a speaking task for example or the product which the candidate has produced (eg an email) could be put into the portfolio.

Accreditation of prior experience/learning
A candidate may bring evidence that he/she has produced in another environment (for example a letter making a hotel reservation written during a work placement). The assessor would need to look at the evidence carefully and may need to question the candidate as to the content of the letter to ensure that the work was truly the candidate’s own. Only when it is established that the candidate has produced the work, may it be included as a valid and reliable piece of evidence.