Performance Assessments in the Context of Developing and Assessing Competencies

Abstract

The development of competencies required for careers is a challenge for tertiary education systems across the world. Assessment of competencies in the learning environment is crucial here. Performance assessments as part of tasks carried out by learners is an opportunity for development and assessment of competencies. Engineering competencies can be developed through multiple design-build experiences that create significant learning. When performance assessments as part of tertiary education programs are systematically designed using instructional design models and assessed using criteria-based rubrics for technical and behavioral competencies, learners develop the desired competencies for their careers in stages. This chapter proposes an approach for performance assessment in tertiary technology and engineering programs using the above concepts.