NEEDS ANALYSIS
Whether it be training for teachers and assessors or a specialized curriculum for unique educational programs, it is essential to understand the context for training and learning. Analysis of target tasks or competencies (around which learning will take place) combined with an understanding of the target audience lays the groundwork for the design and development of training programs. This phase of instructional design can include a review of the relevant literature, a scan of existing materials, programs, and best practices in the field, as well as observations and interviews.
Most of our educational projects begin with a needs analysis.
CURRICULUM DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT
A curriculum outlines a course of study, sometimes also providing a range of learning activities and procedures, as well as standardized assessments. Our training programs integrate clear objectives, appropriate teaching, learning, and assessment strategies, systematic feedback, and evaluation. Ideally, key stakeholders take part in the curriculum development process. This helps ensure the program is implemented.
ASSESSMENT & TESTING
While formative assessment is part of the learning process, summative assessment looks at what has been achieved, or learned, as a result of teaching and training. Assessments are also typically used for placement or needs identification.
High stakes tests, such as those required for certification or other demonstration of competency and proficiency, call for relevant and reliable test specifications, test items, assessor training and calibration, standard-setting, policy development, and validation procedures.
We have developed and implemented assessments of various kinds, from low stakes formative assessments to high stakes testing for certification. We have experience creating both paper-based and online tests.
PILOTING & EVALUATION
An important part of curriculum and test implementation is piloting. The piloting cycle involves trials and evaluation informed by both quantitative and qualitative analysis in the form of questionnaires, surveys, and statistical analysis of test items. We prepare data collection tools, collect, and analyse data, and produce piloting and validation reports.
IMPLEMENTATION
Implementing a new curriculum or assessment requires stakeholder engagement, instructors training, monitoring of feedback as well as ongoing review. We will create an implementation plan and monitoring tools to support the implementation process.