QA_POL_11 Assessment Policy

1. Purpose

This policy is provided on behalf of the RTO, Lumify Learn, as a commitment to providing quality training and assessment in accordance with the Standards for Registered Training Organisations 2015 (SRTOs). As such, Lumify Learn is required to implement an assessment system that ensures assessments (including recognition of prior learning) comply with the assessment requirements of National Training Packages and Accredited courses within it scope of registration.

This policy ensures Lumify Learn assessment practices comply with SRTOs, provides Lumify Learn assessors with clear information on assessment processes and evidence requirements, and ensures that assessments are conducted in accordance with the principles of assessment and rules of evidence.

2. Policy Statement

Lumify Learn offers assessment opportunities to all enrolled clients. Lumify Learn is committed to ensuring that all assessment is conducted in a fair and equitable manner, meeting the requirements of the relevant Training Package, industry expectations and standards.

Lumify Learn applies flexible assessment options, which recognize the diversity of individual client needs and circumstances, facilitating wherever possible the realization of their learning and vocational goals.

Lumify Learn ensures that:

• all assessment options and processes implemented are in compliance with competency based assessment and Training Package requirements;

• all assessments ensure the integrity of the VET system;

• assessment complies with the Principles of Assessment (POA) as prescribed in the SRTOs;

• evidence submitted for assessment is assessed in accordance with the Rules of Evidence (ROE) as prescribed in the SRTOS; and

• all assessments are conducted by individuals who meet the necessary requirements as noted in the SRTOs.

3. Definitions

3.1  The following words and expressions have the following specific meaning, as in the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015.

Assessment means the process of collecting evidence and making judgements on whether competency has been achieved, to confirm that an individual can perform to the standard required in the workplace, as specified in a training package or accredited course.

Assessment system is a coordinated set of documented policies and procedures (including assessment materials and tools) that ensure assessments are consistent and are based on the Principles of Assessment contained in the SRTOs Table 1.8-1 and the Rules of Evidence contained in SRTOs Table 1.8-2.

Competency means the consistent application of knowledge and skill to the standard of performance required in the workplace. It embodies the ability to transfer and apply skills and knowledge to new situations and environments.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) means an assessment process that assesses the competency/s of an individual that may have been acquired through formal, non-formal and informal learning to determine the extent to which that individual meets the requirements specified in the training package or accredited courses.

• formal learning refers to learning that takes place through a structured program of instruction and is linked to the attainment of an AQF qualification or statement of attainment (for example, a certificate, diploma or university degree);

• non-formal learning refers to learning that takes place through a structured program of instruction, but does not lead to the attainment of an AQF qualification or statement of attainment (for example, in-house professional development programs conducted by a business); and

• informal learning refers to learning that results through experience of work-related, social, family, hobby or leisure activities (for example the acquisition of interpersonal skills developed through several years as a sales representative).

4. Policy Principles

4.1 Underpinning Principles

• Competency based assessment is a system of collecting evidence, about a person’s performance to a pre-set competency standard with emphasis placed on what a person can do (the outcome) rather than comparing a person’s achievement to others.
  There is no concept of pass or fail, only competent (C) or not yet competent (NYC). The training is focused and allows for greater participation of the client in the assessment process.

• Three levels of assessment:

Various levels of assessment may be used, including:

1. Diagnostic also known as pre-assessment provides information about prior knowledge and skills. This baseline information may diagnose a problem or training requirement.

2. Formative assessment assists and supports training by monitoring and advising clients of their performance and rate of progress against the training outcomes. This provides feedback to the client, supervisor and trainer on what development activities are needed to achieve the required competencies. Assessment accumulates.

3. Summative assessment evaluates of achievement of the Training outcome. Often conducted in the workplace, summative assessment confirms achievement of the competency requirements. Assessment culminates.

• Assessment modes may include :

1. On-the-job

2. As part of training

3. Off-the-job (Simulation)

4. Completion and submission of assignments / work projects

5. Recognition of Prior learning (RPL)

6. On-line

• Evidence gathering methods commonly used by Lumify Learn may include, but are not limited to:

1. Projects

2. Written Assignments

3. Workplace assignments

4. Workplace performance

5. Documentation

6. Demonstration

7. Questioning

8. Role play

9. Simulation

10. Oral presentations

11. Written tests

12. Portfolio

13. Third party reports.

• Assessment is carried out in accordance with the requirements of the relevant Training Package, on a consistent and timely basis to ensure that learning has taken place and that clients have acquired the knowledge and skills required to demonstrate competency.

• All assessments will be recorded in accordance with Lumify Learn Records Management Policy and procedures using appropriate documentation and Student Management System (SMS).

• Summative Assessment outcomes will be recorded and securely maintained in both electronic and manual systems.

• Feedback is provided to clients and includes the assessment outcome and guidance for further learning and assessment (as appropriate);

4.2 Special Considerations

• Clients who experience unforeseen circumstances or have special needs that affect their performance in an assessment may be eligible to apply for a special consideration and/or reasonable adjustment to assessment.

• Special consideration may apply to clients who during training or assessment experience one of the following circumstances:

1. Serious illness or psychological conditions for example, hospital admission, serious injury, severe anxiety or depression (requires doctor’s certificate).

2. Bereavement.

3. Hardship/Trauma for example, victim of crime, sudden unemployment.

4. Other exceptional circumstances (to be assessed on application).

• Clients wishing to apply for Special consideration in the above circumstances may do so by discussing their circumstances with the Lumify Learn Training Manager.

• Approved applications for Special consideration may be subject to one of the following outcomes:

1. Extension of submission date (not beyond 6 months);

2. Deferred Assessment;

3. Additional assessment;

4. No action;

5. Withdrawal from course without penalty;

6. Resubmit/reassessment; or

7. Opportunity to recommence course, dependent on availability on another date.

4.3 Reasonable Adjustments to assessment

• Clients have the right to apply for and receive adjustment to assessment activities to accommodate individual/special needs.

• Adjustments to assessment cannot compromise the integrity of assessment, elements and performance criteria of the unit of competency.

• Adjustments to assessment will not provide an unfair advantage / disadvantage to clients.

4.4 Assessment Submission

• All assessments submitted must include a completed assessment cover sheet, for client identification and disclaimer purposes.

• Assessments must be submitted by clients as required by the training plan and/or assessor.

• Clients are allowed one re-assessment free of charge for an assessment which has previously been deemed “Not Yet Competent”. Fees may apply for a second and subsequent re-assessment, at the discretion of CEO for Lumify Learn.

• Third and subsequent re-submissions will only be authorized by the CEO of Lumify Learn. In most circumstances, clients who require third and subsequent re-assessments further learning and possibly re-enrolment would be required, therefore incurring a further fee.

4.5 Principles of Assessment

• Assessments are conducted in accordance with the Principles of Assessment as prescribed in the SRTOs. Below is an excerpt from the SRTOs 2015 Table 1.8-1:

4.6 Rules of Evidence

• Assessments are conducted ensuring compliance with the Rules of Evidence (ROE) as prescribed in the SRTOs. Below is an excerpt from the SRTOs 2015 Table 1.8-2:

4.7 Assessor Requirements

• All assessments are undertaken by suitably qualified Assessors who have both assessor competencies and vocational competencies at least to the level being assessed, and as prescribed in Standard 1 and Schedule 1 of the SRTOs 2015.

4.8 Assessment Resources

• Assessment resources are developed in consultation with industry.

• Assessment tools are the resources used by assessors to identify and record the skills and knowledge clients must demonstrate to be deemed competent in a unit/module.

• Assessment tools are crucial for the accurate and consistent assessment of clients against competency standards.

• Assessment tools are required as evidence of assessment and must be retained on record as proof that a person was assessed as competent, for a minimum period of six (6) months for Fee for Service students, or for the minimum length prescribed in any State or Federal Government contract, where funding is provided by Government.

1. Assessment tools consists of:

2. Instructions for clients;

3. Instructions for assessors;

4. Assessment instruments;

5. Pre assessment briefing;

6. Assessment checklists; and

7. Assessment outcome Summary.

4.9 Assessment Validation

Lumify Learn assessment policies, processes, resources and outcomes are validated regularly. (See Validation Policy)

4.10 Assessment Marking

• Assessments are not graded.

• Assessments are assessed/marked in order of submission date.

• When marking assessments, Assessors will make comments and provide genuine feedback for the entire assessment.

• Clients are notified of assessment outcomes within two (2) weeks of submission.

4.11 Assessment Decisions and Outcomes

• Assessment outcomes are recorded as one of the following:

1. Competent (C) - Clients are deemed ‘competent’ when they have consistently demonstrated their skills and knowledge to the standard required in the workplace, for a full unit/module.

2. Not Yet Competent (NYC) – Clients are deemed ‘Not Yet Competent’ when they are unable/have not demonstrated appropriate levels of competence in accordance with the minimum performance standards for a full unit/module.

• Clients assessed as ‘Not Yet competent’ shall receive feedback and guidance from the Assessor, and may be required to undergo further training before re-assessment.

4.12 Assessor Code of Conduct

1. All Lumify Learn Assessors abide by the following code of conduct. Assessment specialists have developed an international code of ethics and practice (The National Council for Measurement in Education (NCME)). The Code of Practice below is based on the international standards.

• The differing needs of clients will be identified and handled with sensitivity

• Conflict of interest in the assessment process will be identified with appropriate referrals made to the operations manager when identified

• All forms of harassment will be managed throughout the planning, conduct, reviewing and reporting of the assessment outcomes as per the Access and Equity Policy

• The rights of the client are protected during and after the assessment

• Personal or interpersonal factors that are not relevant to the assessment of competency must not influence the assessment outcomes as per the Complaints and Appeals Policy

• The client is made aware of rights and processes of appeal

• Evidence that is gathered during the assessment is verified for validity, reliability, authenticity, sufficiency and currency

• Assessment decisions are based on available evidence that can be accessed and verified by another assessor

• Assessments are conducted within the boundaries of the assessment system policies and procedures

• Formal agreement is obtained from both the client and the assessor that the assessment was carried out in accordance with the procedures briefed before the commencement of the assessment

• Assessment tools, systems, and procedures are consistent with equal opportunity legislation

• Prior to the assessment the client is informed of all assessment reporting processes and all known potential consequences of decisions arising from the assessment

• Confidentiality is maintained regarding assessment results and are only released with the written permission of the client

• The assessment results are used consistently with the purpose explained to the client

• Self-assessments are periodically conducted to ensure current competencies against the Training and Assessment Competency Standards

• Professional development opportunities are identified and sought by assessors

• Opportunities for networking amongst assessors are created and maintained with technical assistance in planning, conducting and reviewing assessment procedures and outcomes.

4.13 Recognition of Prior Learning

All clients are offered access to Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), Recognition of Current Competency upon enrolment. (See Recognition Policy)

4.14 Plagiarism, Cheating and Collusion in Assessment

• Plagiarism, cheating and collusion in assessment are expressly prohibited.

• Students/Clients cannot submit any piece of work for assessment that is not entirely their own work.

• Students/Clients cannot assist other Lumify Learn clients with assessed work.

• Students/Clients cannot accept assistance from other Lumify Learn clients with assessed work.

• Students/Clients cannot submit the same piece of work for assessment, as another learner/client of Lumify Learn.

• Students/Clients should also not lodge work that they have paid to be completed, this will also be determined to be plagiarism and/or cheating.

• All cases of plagiarism, cheating and collusion are treated as a serious matter and will be reviewed and treated on a case by case basis.

• Depending on severity and circumstances, penalties of plagiarism, cheating and collusion may include one or more of the following (i.e. sanctions may not be discrete):

1. Completion and resubmission of a new assessment task; and/or

2. All parties receiving a “Not Yet Competent” result for the assessment task; and/or

3. Verbal or written warning; and/or

4. Suspension or expulsion from the course.

• Client records will be noted with all investigated and proven incidents.

• All incidents will be reviewed by the CEO for Lumify Learn.

5. Lumify Learn Responsibilities

5.1 RTO CEO

The CEO for Lumify Learn is responsible for ensuring assessments comply with the requirements of National Training packages, the current AQF Handbook and the SRTOs and qualifications are within the current scope of registration.

The CEO for Lumify Learn must ensure the assessment process is open, structured, consistent and comprehensive incorporating feedback to the client on the outcomes of the assessment process, as well as information regarding the appeals procedure and guidance on other options.

The CEO for Lumify Learn is responsible for ensuring the assessment strategies are designed with the flexibility to meet the needs and circumstances of a wide range of clients, including those who may be socially, linguistically, educationally, or otherwise disadvantaged.

The CEO will ensure:

• All appointed and authorised Assessors possess and maintain relevant qualifications and vocational competency in accordance with those required in SRTOs.

• Clients are provided information on the assessment process prior to assessments being conducted.

• Assessors incorporate the principles of assessment including validity, reliability, flexibility and fairness when conducting assessments.

• Assessors apply the rules of evidence including validity, sufficiency, currency and authenticity when conducting assessments.

• Assessment processes provide for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

• An effective feedback mechanism is established and implemented to inform clients and clients on their assessment progress and results.

• An effective recording and reporting process of the unit of competency/module including access to information by clients to their records.

• Clients have access to an open, equitable and transparent appeals process.

• Awards of qualifications are in accordance with RTO Scope of Registration as listed by TGA (www.training.gov.au).

• Ongoing internal monitoring and validation of the assessment system for quality control checks.

• Management and staff participation in an independent (external auditing) quality control process conducted by the VET regulator.

• Assessors undertake professional development regarding VET systems including assessment.

5.2 Assessors

Assessors conducting assessment on behalf of Lumify Learn will:

• Ensure they assess and judge a client’s skills and knowledge of competence against set standards, principles of assessment and rules of evidence.

• Ensure that safety of the personnel involved in the assessment is maintained at all times.

• Ensure that assessment focuses on the application of knowledge and skills to the standard of performance required in the workplace and covers all aspects of workplace performance.

• Ensure the assessment process is open, structured, consistent and comprehensive incorporating feedback to the client on the outcomes of the assessment process, as well as information regarding the appeals procedure and guidance on other options.

• Interpret and understand the performance criteria and evidence requirements.

• Select appropriate assessment methods and materials.

• Make fair and objective judgements.

• Abide by the Assessor Code of Conduct.

• Provide all relevant paperwork to administration for processing in a timely manner.

• Participate in professional development related to VET systems including assessment.

6. Appeals

Clients have the right to appeal an assessment decision. (See Complaints and Appeals Policy)

7. Access and Equity

Clients have fair and equal rights to assessment. (See Access and Equity Policy)

8. Records Management

All completed assessment items for fee for service clients will be kept by Lumify Learn for a minimum of six (6) months or for the minimum length prescribed in any State or Federal Government contract, where funding is provided by Government.

The RTO will retain records of AQF certification and Statements of Attainment for a period of 30 years.

All documentation from Assessment processes are maintained in accordance with Records Management Policy. (See Records Management Policy)

9. Monitoring and Improvement

All Assessment practices are monitored by the CEO for Lumify Learn and areas for improvement identified and acted upon. (See Continuous Improvement Policy)

10. Related Documents

QA_PRO_10 Reasonable Adjustment Procedure

QA_POL_10 Reasonable adjustment Policy

QA_DOC_09_01 Student Support List

QA_POL_08 Complaints & appeals policy

QA_PRO_08 Complaints and appeals procedure

QA_FRM_08_01 Complaints and appeals form

QA_REG_08 Complaints & appeals register

QA_POL_07 Withdrawal and Refunds Policy

QA_DOC_03_01 Student Handbook

QA_PRO_03_04 Student code of conduct

QA_DOC_03_10 Breach of Code of Conduct Letter Template

QA_POL_12 Industry engagement Policy

QA_POL_13 Recognition Policy

QA_PRO_013 Recognition of Prior Learning Procedure

QA_POL_15 Validation of assessment Policy

QA_POL_16 Progression and intervention

QA_FRM_16_01 Assessment Extension Request Form

QA_POL_19 Data and Record Management Policy

QA_PRO_19 Data and Record Management Procedure

QA_POL_20 Feedback Policy

QA_FRM_20_01 Feedback form

QA_POL_25 Continuous improvement Policy

QA_REG_25 Continuous improvement register

Individual Learning Plan