COURSE OUTLINE: COMPETENCY-BASED ASSESSMENT
1. Introduction to Competency-Based Assessment
Definition of competency and CBA
Purpose and importance of CBA
Differences between traditional and competency-based assessment
Principles of CBA (validity, reliability, fairness, flexibility, authenticity)
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2. Understanding Competencies
Structure of competencies (knowledge, skills, attitudes)
Types of competencies (core, generic, technical/occupational)
Competency standards and performance criteria
Mapping competencies to learning outcomes
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3. Assessment Planning
Steps in designing a competency-based assessment plan
Identifying evidence requirements
Choosing appropriate assessment methods
Assessment tools: checklists, rubrics, rating scales, portfolios
Preparing assessment schedules and documentation
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4. Methods and Tools of Competency Assessment
Observation and practical demonstrations
Oral questioning
Written tests
Simulations/role-plays
Projects and assignments
Workplace assessment and evidence collection
Digital/e-portfolio assessment
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5. Conducting Competency-Based Assessments
Preparing learners and assessment environment
Giving instructions and guidelines
Collecting evidence of performance
Ensuring authenticity and consistency
Managing special needs and adjustments
Ethical considerations in assessment
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6. Recording and Interpreting Evidence
Types of evidence (direct, indirect, supplementary)
Using scoring guides and rubrics
Judging competency against standards
Avoiding assessor bias
Maintaining accurate assessment records
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7. Feedback and Reporting
Principles of effective feedback
Providing constructive feedback to learners
Completing assessment reports
Communicating results to learners, institutions, and stakeholders
Procedures for appeals and reassessment
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8. Quality Assurance in Competency-Based Assessment
Internal moderation and verification
External quality assurance
Standardisation of assessors
Continuous improvement processes
Compliance with assessment policies and national standards (e.g., TVET, KNQA)
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9. Roles and Responsibilities of Assessors
Qualifications and attributes of a competent assessor
Ethical and professional conduct
Working with trainers, learners, and other assessors
Maintaining confidentiality and fairness
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10. Practical Assessment Activities
Developing assessment tools
Conducting mock assessments
Collecting and judging evidence
Writing assessment reports
Peer review and moderation simulation
- Teacher: Mutai Kipkirui