Health Studies

Assessment

There are three main forms of assessment used in this qualification; they are external, internal and synoptic. Externally assessed units The styles of external assessment used for this qualification are: Examinations – all learners take the same assessment at the same time, normally with a written outcome Set tasks – learners take the assessment during a defined window and demonstrate understanding through completion of a vocational task. Internally-assessed units: Most units in the sector are internally assessed. Students may be given one or more of the following: • write up the findings of their own research • use case studies to explore complex or unfamiliar situations • carry out projects for which they have choice over the direction and outcomes • demonstrate practical and technical skills using appropriate work-based values and practices. Synoptic assessment: Synoptic assessment requires students to demonstrate that they can identify and use effectively, in an integrated way, an appropriate selection of skills, techniques, concepts, theories and knowledge from across the whole sector as relevant to a key task. These units will give learners an understanding of health and social care within the wider contexts of different environments and settings where care takes place, the importance of effective communication in health and social care, the importance of legislation in health and social care and the principles behind the person-centred approach to care and how this is applied in the workplace. Learners will also develop transferable skills such as communication skills as well as research, planning and organisation.