Can you digitise practical tests? With the increase in distance learning, remote (practical) assessment has also become a highly relevant topic. Practical assessment has major advantages and is a very popular form of assessment. Of course, not all practical elements can be assessed digitally. However, there are various applications for which this is indeed possible. Why practical assessment? There are several advantages and disadvantages to practical assessment. By far the greatest advantage is that a good practice test is the most relevant method of assessment. After all, if you can demonstrate that you have mastered a skill, you are more likely to be able to start as a novice professional. In addition, there is usually broad support for this form of assessment, however nerve-wracking it may be for candidates. A significant disadvantage is that practical assessment is never entirely free of subjectivity. However, this disadvantage can be minimised quite easily. For example, you can specify the criteria on which you are assessing in specific measurement points and train assessors to apply these criteria and measurement points correctly. Applications of digital practical tests For some practical tasks, digital practical testing is simply impossible. Examples include tasks such as replacing car parts during car repairs or administering injections by a nurse. However, if we take a closer look at practical testing, there are a number of areas that are indeed suitable for digitisation: Assessment of judgement; Practical assessment of written work; Assessment of conversation techniques; Facilitating with digital resources. 1. Assessment of judgement Some actions stem from a pre-formed judgement, such as performing an MOT test. Such actions can be easily assessed with a digital practical test. In addition, judgement is often part of a practical action. This type of judgement can also be easily tested digitally. Think, for example, of the work of a sales assistant. An exam assignment could be: ‘assess the customer's needs based on this video’. This assessment is then part of the practical action ‘conducting a sales conversation’. 2. Practical assessment of written work In addition, tasks in which the candidate produces a written product can easily be assessed digitally. Consider, for example, the writing of an official report by a Special Investigating Officer (BOA) based on a situation sketch, as seen in a video. Another example is the preparation of part of the annual accounts by an accountant. These are practical activities that can easily be digitised given the end product. 3. Assessment of conversation techniques Behaviour that occurs during interviews can also be assessed digitally. A candidate is first shown a scenario (in a video) and then responds directly via webcam. After the practical test, the assessor evaluates the candidate's responses. This could include responding to the other party in a negotiation or giving (initial) advice. Of course, this is not the same as conducting a negotiation or consultation, but it does allow you to test whether someone is able to respond appropriately to what is happening in a situation. 4. Facilitating with digital resources Digital resources can also support (practical) assessment (remotely). For example, when conducting a role play. The use of digital resources, such as a camera and an online connection, means that it is no longer necessary for everyone to be in the same location. In addition, this method of assessment can even improve the quality of the assessment: by recording the role play, it can be viewed several times during the assessment. Another example in which digital tools facilitate (practical) assessment in a positive way is the use of testing software in the secure, complete and clear completion, storage and transmission of assessment forms. Conclusion Practical tests can certainly be (partially) digitised! Various aspects of practical skills can be tested digitally without any problems. What's more, digital support for practical tests often improves quality and safety.
