16 October 2024
Cambridge has expanded its assessment professional development offering by launching A102: Introducing Assessment Practice in a new on-demand format.
Since its launch in 2019, the course has been a cornerstone of The Assessment Networks’ training catalogue, with thousands of practitioners gaining comprehensive knowledge of the assessment cycle from start to finish.
After a thorough review period, this new on-demand format has been developed for practitioners seeking flexible, self-paced and research-informed assessment training.
Instant access to Cambridge expertise
The new on-demand format builds on the success of A102 by offering greater flexibility for practitioners looking to enhance their assessment skills.
James Beadle is Senior Professional Development Manager at The Assessment Network and has been involved in the redevelopment of A102.
We have observed an increasing demand from our global practitioners for immediate access to high-quality Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training that addresses the evolving landscape of educational assessment. Following the successful launch of A101: Introducing the Principles of Assessment and Classroom Assessment in an asynchronous format, we are excited to introduce the new version of A102. This course will enable learners worldwide to engage with the assessment cycle at their convenience.”
A102 will also continue to be offered in its traditional, scheduled online format, providing guided support for both individuals and organisations.
The course offers an overview of the assessment cycle, covering key areas such as assessment design, quality assurance, and the roles of stakeholders in the process. Participants explore topics from designing qualifications to standardisation and grading, whilst gaining practical skills and insights into both academic and vocational assessments.
Lalit Ghimire, an A-level mathematics teacher from Nepal, is one of many learners who has enhanced his assessment practice through A102:
I thoroughly enjoyed A102: Introducing Assessment Practice. The course provided a comprehensive understanding of assessment principles and practicalities. The clear learning objectives, engaging content, and interactive assessments made the learning experience both informative and enjoyable. I appreciate the effort put into creating this valuable resource."
A new programme for assessment practice
This on-demand version of A102 is a core part of The Assessment Network’s new Assessment Practitioner Programme, a structured learning approach designed for professionals working in assessment roles. Alongside A102, the programme combines the following CPD opportunities:
Participants who complete all components of the programme will earn 60 hours of CPD and will be eligible for the Assessment Practitioner Award (APA). The award is testament to a professional’s commitment to understanding and applying the key assessment principles to their work.
To receive the award, participants on the programme become a member of The Assessment Network membership scheme, giving them access to a global community of assessment professionals from a variety of contexts.
Benefits of the membership scheme include regular resources, exclusive course discounts, networking opportunities, and free online access to an annual hybrid conference. This ensures members on the programme stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in assessment whilst working towards their certification.
Amanda Jane Lowles, an Exam Centre Manager from Italy received her APA award in 2023:
It’s very rewarding to receive an award for my work in developing my assessment expertise. The award highlights my dedication to assessment and is an excellent way to showcase and promote my Centre to my audience.”
Head of Assessment Training at The Assessment Network, Dr Simon Child is a key driver behind the programme’s development:
The Assessment Practitioner Programme has been carefully crafted to provide you with the essential knowledge and applicable skills to ‘do’ assessment well. It is a blended learning approach, mixing live practitioner workshops on question writing, with the ‘big picture’ principles that underpin strong assessment design. It not only gives you an essential toolkit that will be valuable to you and your learners, but you also will secure your status as an assessment innovator and leader through the APA.”
For existing members of The Assessment Network, the full programme, including A102, is available for £740. New members can join for £855, which includes a one-year membership.
Or if you wish to get started by navigating the assessment cycle from start to finish you can enrol into A102: Introducing Assessment Practice today.
The Assessment Network is part of Cambridge University Press & Assessment. We provide professional development for impactful assessment.