ABSTRACT

This presentation will outline the Irish context of assessment in a range of vocational settings by examining current trends and developments in the area.

The presentation will begin by describing the current vocational education and training context by drawing on existing Qual-Praxis data. This element of the presentation will also show how recent developments such as the National Qualification Framework and the establishment of FETAC (Further Education & Training Awards Council) have affected assessment systems within the State.

The presentation will go on to show how the Irish system of vocational assessment is primarily an outcome-based system, and that practice-oriented assessment is a relatively new concept area in Ireland. From their case studies the Irish research team will outline various perspectives from a range of vocational contexts which will include teacher training and industry. These views will examine practice-oriented assessment and respective quality assurance systems in these areas.

The presentation will conclude by exploring the challenges faced by the research teams in arriving at a common definition of practice oriented assessment which could be applied in each of the partner countries.