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Observation (of behavior)

For an observation as an assessment form, you observe and assess students’ behaviour to gain insight into certain factors.

Assessment formatAI resilience: RobustPreparation time: < 10 minExecution time: < 10 min

For an observation as an assessment form, you observe and assess students’ behaviour to gain insight into certain factors. For example, you can observe students at a workplace, at the educational institution, in a group setting, during an action, or through a simulation or role-play. With observations, you can assess students’ performance and their ability to apply skills and knowledge in real life situations. This gives you a more comprehensive and realistic assessment of their skills than a formal examination setting and helps them prepare for practice.

You can test students with an observation, for example on:

  • Performance of practical tasks: for example, hands-on exercises, presentations, experiments, demonstrations and professional actions.
  • Analytical skills: for example, problem-solving, critical thinking and decision-making skills.
  • Collaborative skills: for example, communication, teamwork and leadership skills.
  • Knowledge and understanding: for example, knowledge of theories, understanding of concepts and application of principles.
  • Attitudes and values: for example, motivation, commitment, responsibility and integrity.

It is important to set clear criteria for this and communicate them to the students in advance. Agree with them on how and when the observation will take place and preferably assess them only on the basis of the agreed criteria. Include the results in your assessment and discuss it with them. A rubric or assessment scheme or form can help to achieve transparent and objective assessment.

Want to know more?

See also: Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE).

Se also: FeedbackFruits Skill Review.

VU Taxonomy?

Programme specific skills in applying knowledge and understanding
Interpersonal skills
Oral communication
Own reflexive attitude and responsibility in society

What total group size?

More than one hundred
Between fifty and one hundred
Up to fifty
Up to twenty five

What activity group size?

Individual
Small group (2-4 pers)
Up to twenty fiveUp to fiftyBetween fifty and one hundredMore than one hundredIndividualSmall group (2-4 pers)Interpersonal skillsOral communicationOwn reflexive attitude and responsibility in society