Tuesday, December 31, 2019

Dna Testing And The Second Amendment - 1276 Words

DNA AS EVIDENCE DNA testing was first used in criminal prosecutions in 1985 and is now admissible in all states. (Hails, 184) Scientific and legal communities seem to universally accept the use of DNA as â€Å"good† evidence. Questions could arise regarding testing procedures. There are several testing methods that have been proven reliable and easily pass general acceptance and scientific validity tests. This is causes number of Daubert cases questioning DNA to decline. â€Å"In most cases, the tests that are used are well established and do not require a separate hearing† (Hails, 160) Once it is established the testing method used passes the Daubert test, the court must determine admissibility based on the Fourth Amendment. The Fourth Amendment is the right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable search and seizures, shall not be violated and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized (US Const.) â€Å"In United States v Davis, Earl Davis was shot and while being treated for his gunshot wound, the Howard County Police Department (HCPD) in Maryland collected his clothing and logged it along with records of Davis’s arrest. The next year the nearby Prince George’s County Police Department (PGCPD) suspected Davis of a murder and obtained the clothes that HCPD had previously collected. PGCPD thenShow MoreRelatedThe Case Of Maryland V King1670 Words   |  7 PagesFourth Amendment which protects citizens against unreasonable searches and seizures. The Supreme Court addressed this issue in the 2013 case of Maryland v King explicitly related to the legality of DNA collection of individuals early in the booking process for serious crimes. In a 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court ruled that pre-conviction DNA collection of those arrested for serious crimes is constitutiona l and does not violate the Fourth Amendment; a decision that will forever change the way DNA testingRead MoreCase Analysis : Mary Sullivan s Body1278 Words   |  6 Pagesassault done before Boston killings. Many new methods of DNA analysis have emerged since Jeffrey’s’ work. Using new technologies such as mtDNA testing and familial searching have helped analyze DNA evidence in old cases and have provided answers to questions of guilt and remove lingering doubts of strangler of Boston. The two techniques that opened the door to Mary Sullivan’s killer was mitochondrial DNA and Familial DNA. Mitochondrial DNA tests DNA from the mitochondria of a human cell. Humans inheritRead MoreThe Death Penalty Should Be Abolished1412 Words   |  6 Pageshave any false convictions that happened to be proven falsely through DNA testing. Stuart Taylor Jr. wrote an article in the National Journal in 2007 says that the irrefutable DNA testing results exonerated over two hundred men—fifteen from death row in the 1990’s (procon.org). Some say DNA testing is costly. I disagree with that viewpoint. DNA testing assist in the avoidance in the conviction of the innocent. The cost of testing parallel to incarceration of the innocent over-time should be lesserRead MoreThe Death Penalty And The Criminal Justice System1475 Words   |  6 Pagesconvictions eyewitness identification, improper DNA testing, and false confessions. The Innocence Project is a project working to free the innocent and bring awareness to the issue of wrongful convictions around the world. In this page reports, that the percentage of exoneration cases are 235 involving eyewitness misidentification (The Innocence Project). Eyewitness misidentification is the highest contributing cause to wrongful convictions proven by DNA testing. There are three types of eyewitness identificationRead MoreThe s New Ordinance For Each Basis Will She Win?1729 Words   |  7 Pagesrequest for injunction on the following grounds: (1) that the ordinance violated her Fourth Amendment rights to be free from search and seizure; (2) that the ordinance violates her rights to Due Process and Equal Protection under the 5th and 14th Amendments; and, (3) that the ordinance will force Fang to give up her possessory right in her bodily tissue and blood samples. A. Violation of Fourth Amendment Right To Unreasonable Search and Seizure Fang will likely first want to challenge the ordinanceRead MoreThe Evolution of Warrantless Searches With Alcohol, Blood, And DNA With the creation of the2200 Words   |  9 Pages The Evolution of Warrantless Searches With Alcohol, Blood, And DNA With the creation of the First Congress, framers manifested the Fourth Amendment to provide sufficient privacy standards for the citizens of the United States of America. Framers upheld the 4th Amendment to sustain a functioning government-governed relationship, where officials respect individuals’ privacy and rights. During the First Congress, framers explicitly granted, â€Å"the right of the people to be secureRead MoreCapital Punishment And The Death Penalty1708 Words   |  7 Pagesdeath penalty travelled around the world, it became very popular in America leading to many Supreme Court cases and protests. Endlessly, people have argued their viewpoints about whether the death penalty is constitutional in relation to the 8th amendment which states no â€Å"cruel or unusual† punishment. Politicians from every state including Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi, have commented their personal views on the death penalty making it a very public dispute. Capital punishment is a very popular subjectRead MoreThe Death Penalty Is The United States Justice System1542 Words   |  7 Pageswere wrongfully killed! With the arrival of DNA testing in the mid 80’s, by 1992, 17 death row inmates in the US where acquitted and released. The sad fact remains that all capital punishment cases don’t have DNA evidence, in fact many do not. It is terrif ying to contemplate that whether a person lives or dies can be determined based on eyewitness testimony. The innocence Project researchers report that 73% of 239 convictions reversed because of DNA, were based on eyewitness testimony. The onlyRead MoreThe Case Of James Richardson2785 Words   |  12 PagesJames Bain who spent 35 years in prison (which is the longest time served by anyone who has been wrongfully convicted) for being wrongfully accused of multiple crimes including rape and was sent to prison for life only to finally be granted the use of DNA evidence review for his case which eventually was the deciding factor that gave him his freedom back. The case of Daryl Burton sickens many people to the core after he served 24 years in prison after being charged with murder. It was later found outRead MoreThe Death Penalty Is Not Justice1509 Words   |  7 Pageseighth amendment. â€Å"No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury†¦; nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb†¦ nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Constitution 1). It is often argued that the death penalty should be continued because of the establishment of the eighth amendment. However, the eighth amendment contradicts

Monday, December 23, 2019

Administration Discussion Questions Essay - 1178 Words

1. Why is the job market for administrative professionals growing? What effect do you think the economic downturn of 2008-2009 had on this field? Since the economic downturn of 2008-2009 recessions, the job market for administrative professionals in on the rise. The field is anticipated to grow because administrative professionals work in areas of the economy that are expanding and generating new jobs—such as education, social service, legal service, health care, and finance. With so many jobs lost during the recession and the recent turnaround in economy, employers are looking to refill those positions. 2. Where do administrative professionals work? Name at least two factors that would be the same and two factors that would be different†¦show more content†¦Employers are responsible for ensuring all their employees receive the tools, equipment, and supplies needed to achieve the duties assigned to them. They should treat employees with respect, pay them fairly, and provide safe working condition. 7. How would you describe the culture of the institution in which you are taking this class? How does your class reflect this culture? The culture of Texas State Technical College is a diverse educational institution with many students that possess unique skills. This class reflects TSTC’s culture because it offers a learning opportunity for us to explore, enhance, and exercise the skills we have learned. Skills, Attitudes, and Traits Importance Ways to improve Communication Communication is especially important to present and express ideas and information clearly and concisely in an appropriate manner whether oral or written. Listening is a big part of communication that leads to fewer misunderstandings. Always communicate clearly, effectively and professionally Interpersonal Interpersonal skills allow empathizing and understanding with colleagues and clients, leading to a better working environment which can be less stressful. Treat your coworkers, customers, and management humane, with respect. Get along with others and provided appropriate support. Technical Today technical skills are a must, businesses rely on computer systems and standard office software is used for daily operations.Show MoreRelatedOperational Definition Of Compensation And Presentation Methods709 Words   |  3 Pagesgovernment officials and experts. 3.3.2. Secondary Data Sources The secondary data sources are obtained from different reports, documents and publication of regional land administration and legal documents including the federal and regional constitutions, proclamations, regulations, websites etc. dealing with land use administration, expropriation and compensation and the related regulations or directives. Relevant academic literature, which reflects various research work and studies on issues haveRead MoreIs VGI an Alternative Model for Gathering and Maintaining Cadastral Data? 908 Words   |  4 Pagesspatial data by citizens’ contribution. Although VGI has applied in various disciplines, VGI practices have just started being used in the land administration system. The core of land administration system is cadastral system. It records the land parcel rights, restrictions and responsibilities. There is a huge tenure gap in the world and current land administration systems are not able to fill this gap. Population growth and urbanization, lack of financial resources, and lack of sufficient professionalRead MoreTypes Of Enemy Labelling Is An Appropriate Way Of Analysing Its Arguments1232 Words   |  5 Pagesstance that may have not been explicit. This is because it establishes a sense of evaluating the situation morally. Counterframing, as Aday notes, can occur by the media rejecting obvious administration framing devices, such as enemy labelling. As stated previously, FNC can be seen to be an outlet for the administration, demonstrating the administration’s preference of how they want the enemy to be labelled. The term â€Å"terrorist† attempts to distance viewers from enemies abroad and has more obvious moralRead MoreHow The Administration Of My School1588 Words   |  7 PagesIntroduction I will be examining how the administration of my school assesses the workforce of my school, works with the teacher unions and makes sure the school action plan is in place to attain the vision of the school. With all the moving parts of the school, I will be looking at how the administration keeps the focus of the school in the right direction. Procedures Used for Assessing the Workforce Our school uses a couple different techniques in order to assess the workforce engagement ofRead MoreEthical Issues In Networks Systems Design: A Reflection1190 Words   |  5 Pagessuch as : i. Administration of questionnaires. ii. Conducting interview sessions ( both face to face and over the telephone ). iii. Study of secondary source of data . The three research methodologies are vital and appropriate for use in the proposal research study since the complement one anther and help to increase reliability and credibility of the research findings and conclusion to be arrived. Based on the analysis done, a single research method such as administration of questionnaireRead MoreImpact Of The Land Administration Projects1464 Words   |  6 PagesChanges in Customary Land Administration and Building Synergy in Pluralistic Institutional Environment in Sub-Sahara Africa: Examining the Impact of the Land Administration Projects (LAP) in Ghana Research Background and Problem Plurality of institutions is a unique feature of the land administration system in Africa. This system is characterized by the operations of traditional landholding institutions that have been in existence and has been holding land time immemorial on ground of ancestry togetherRead MoreBook Review1213 Words   |  5 PagesBook Review by Martha Hall Findlay, March 2011 Approaching Public Administration – Core Debates and Emerging Issues Edited by Roberto P. Leone (Wilfrid Laurier University) and Frank L.K. Ohemeng (University of Ottawa); 2011, Emond Montgomery Publications I recommend this book to all Members of Parliament. I will go further, and suggest that it should be mandatory reading for all Ministers. As an MP, I was very pleased to be asked to read it and to provide my thoughts. As I responded when first askedRead MoreShould Police Officers Be Required For Where Body Cameras?1479 Words   |  6 Pagesvehicle accidents, and other hazards are all part of the political antagonism citizens deal with regularly. All of these incidents can easily be handled, besides one, other hazards. What are the other hazards American citizens must deal with? This questions has yet to be discovered, however the way some of us will discover what are the other hazards of law enforcement could be deadly. These hazards have been in existence hidden within the discretionary implied authority given to a law enforcer as anRead MoreA Research Study On Tools1342 Words   |  6 PagesSome of the studies used as a basis for research in this paper used a qualitative method this was the case in the study conducted by Bennett et al. (2006) a focus group gathered on six separate occasions each time one investigator would facilitate discussions while others audiotaped the dialogue and general observations. This is a qualitative method and researcher attempt to understand the importance of what the participants have stated all while looking for themes or patterns in experience then analyzeRead MoreSyllabus696 Words   |  3 PagesCollege of Business Administration Department of Accountancy Accounting 351 Federal Tax II Fall 2014 Instructor: Simon R. Pearlman Phone: (562) 985-4578 E-Mail: sy.pearlman@csulb.edu Office: CBA 400 Office Hours: Mondays and Wednesdays - 2:00 p. m. – 3:00 p.m. / Wednesdays 5:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. Others by appointment Text: Smith, Raabe, Maloney, Taxation of Business Entities, South-Western, 2015 edition Class Times: 12:00 p.m.-- 1:50 p.m.-Mondays

Sunday, December 15, 2019

Literature Review on IT architecture Free Essays

string(141) " Federal Enterprise Architecture is defined as a method of creating enterprise architecture and thus also known as proscriptive methodology\." Literature Review Abstract The research is all about the use of information system in the organizations. There are many tools which are helpful in managing the whole organization. The business environment is getting highly competitive and many organizations are making strategies to grab the market share. We will write a custom essay sample on Literature Review on IT architecture or any similar topic only for you Order Now A company was selected in order to understand the scenario. A conceptual frames work was developed in the mind to present the problem. The IBM organization was selected to conduct the research. Literature review presents the important theories and concepts along with the importance of he information system in organization. The introduction of the research was done by analyzing the problem which organization face because of the information. Literature suggested many systems which can improve the processes of the organizations. There are many other systems which can increase the performance infrastructure of service quality. The literature was extracted from different articles which improved the report. The report has many suggestions for the organizations. The study of this report can give solution to many problems which the company faced in the current scenario. The comparison was done in the later part of the report and the scenario and literature was matched in order to find loopholes in the system and to provide solution to incapability. Table of Contents Introduction 4 Literature Analysis 4 Current practice section 7 Comparison of Literature and current practice 10 Conclusion 11 References Literature 12 References Current Practice 12 Introduction Enterprise architecture is the process in which operation and structure of an organization is defined. The intention in the process is to achieve future and current objectives. One of the most agreed upon viewpoint is where business perspective, applications perspective, information perspective and technology perspective is part of the future objectives a company is likely to foresee. The use of enterprise architecture includes properly documented processes, systems, infrastructure and applications. This assignment briefly discusses various theories of enterprise architecture particularly at the strategic level and thus explains the theory with a practical example which further glorifies the literature review. Literature Analysis The evolution of the enterprise information system and management is the core responsibility of the Chief Information Officer (CIO) of the company. The CIO information processing and decision making is aided by the technique or process known as Enterprise Architecture. A model based planning and management approach to evaluate management wise information system is called enterprise architecture. The complexity of business supporting system and its significance has been addressed in this enterprise architectural approach. The planning and problem information system is under the responsibility of the Chief Information Officer (CIO). Thus, it can be rightly stated that enterprise architecture is the best way to aid decision making of CIO (Stated et al. AAA). According to Eriksson and Pinker (2000), the importance of a good modeling framework should be emphasizes in the organization but the reason of choosing one model over the other is ambiguous. As a basic question, the model should be able to answer the questions pertaining to the reasons it is designed for. The enterprise architecture is successful in answering the question. The dilemma is to explore the probable questions the model is able to answer. In the enterprise architecture model it is possible to come across the questions of why and how of using the framework or model. In order to mitigate the risk involved, organizations can simply produce more than one model to select the most adequate one. Analysis of the enterprise architectures The decision making as followed by CIO can help in studying the architectural analysis model. The first step is to formulate scenario, the need to recognize the options available to the CIO is the foremost step in order to foresee the information system of an organization. The possible future states of the company can be conjured by performing this step. The next step is to determine the criteria to decide upon; in this step criteria allow CIO to set a benchmark to evaluate different models. One of the important questions needed in setting the criteria are to find out business support, IT security and availability. In this paper, architectural theory or criteria is used to evaluate the model. After setting the criteria the next step is to analyze scenario, in which case one of the criteria is selected to evaluate both models and then so on and so forth. Stated et al. (AAA) explain that next, the firm undertakes the selection of the scenario where process selection of the model takes place on the Asia of the chosen criteria and the support offer to the decision making of CIO. Stated et al. (AAA) further elaborates stating that the birth of the enterprise architecture took place twenty years ago and designed to address two problems poor business alignment and system complexity. In poor business alignment the problem of IT system to align it with the cost is addressed. Kanji, H. And Burns, P. (2011) add that in system complexity entails the need to develop IT systems. The basic idea is to serve the organization with less cost involved but providing more value and utility. However, according to the theory of Stated et al. (AAA), the complexity and cost of these IT systems implemented in the organization have dramatically emphasized by now globally whereas the real value derived from the systems have decreased. Kanji, H. And Burns, P. 2011) stresses that the giant organizations fail to ignore such problems therefore the field of enterprise architecture is powerfully prophetic in the world today. Some methodologies of enterprise architecture are widely used in the world today however the large field makes use of mainly four methodologies. According to Kanji and Burns (201 1), the taxonomy is given another name to the work of Coachman and is termed as the first methodology of the Enterprise architecture (EAI). Another methodology known as the Open Group Architectural Framework (TOGA) is more precisely or accurately defined as the process. The Federal Enterprise Architecture is defined as a method of creating enterprise architecture and thus also known as proscriptive methodology. You read "Literature Review on IT architecture" in category "Literature" The practice of architectural enterprise is known as the Gardner methodology. As articulated by Coachman (1982), the Canaan framework for enterprise is recognized s a framework which is contrary to the definition of the framework. The framework is defined as something that serves as a skeleton structure for construction. The second name given to the approach of Coachman is taxonomy and by definition it is a classification in ordered systems of organisms to give a natural relationship. The Coachman framework is in simple ways taxonomy and organizing of architectural artifacts for instance models, documents and specifications. According to Coachman (1982), the enterprise manufacturing and engineering is around for more than thousand years and will remain for longer. However Kanji and Burns (2011) stress that the understanding of the process is changed with respect to time. The Canaan is the most frequently used technique in large firms due to ease of application and best responses. It is also desirable to cater for necessary complexities of the system design while Enterprise Architecture. Kanji and Burns (2011) also support the Open Group Architecture Framework (GOFF) which is which primarily used within four categories namely business architecture, application architecture, data architecture and technical architecture. The business recess to meet the desired goals is described in the business architecture. The designing of the application and their probable interaction is studied under application architecture. The access and organizing of the data store is termed under data architecture. Finally technical structure talks about the hardware and software to cater for application and access (Stated et al. , 2004). Kanji and Burns (2011) also explain the Federal Enterprise Architecture (FEE) which is done to amalgamate ubiquitous and functions under enterprise architecture. But Moms (2007) contends stating that this new methodology apparently s in the infancy stage so no noticeable work can be seen in the organization and there is not much talk about its failure. The last methodology employed in the Enterprise architecture (EAI) is Gardner. It is the practice rather than a process of an IT and research consulting organization Gardner. Literature Analysis summary The Enterprise Architecture is more of a theory than any thing practical. Above some methodologies are stated that shows different approaches to the EAI and can be studied when considering different perspective. It can also vary with respect to the difference in opinion or difference in practice. These four approaches may be used by Giant Corporations to address different engineering, business and manufacturing issues. The large corporations are entitled to use complex systems which necessitate such EAI methodologies. Current practice section The implementation of the architectural enterprise is not resulted from designing the software or relating it with different business units. The organization itself along with processes affected must be changed sometimes in order to show flexibility and competency in the business functions. IBM has used EAI model in the multi-brand enterprise and multi divisional enterprise. The purpose of this model is to enhance the debate and sharing among the top executives within organization. It is also designed to reach at a common goal by ignoring most of the differences and reaching to the potential outcome. The global system practices are avoided by the corporations if the intended outcome is local profit and loss only. In multi-local enterprises where PL are regarded as the parameters to measure performance and that other performance measure are nonexistent. In this way two avenues left open for such kind of EAI. The first that change in the incentive system is needed to address the issue. In this way enterprise sharing of resource or enterprise integration can be enhanced which was much needed at MOM. The EAI system as employed in the IBM is based on four consenting I. E. Shared identity and purpose, common bonds of performance, shared knowledge and shared infrastructure. These elements when used together can help in integrating the organization with its functions (Gravesend, 2012). Figure 1 . Four factors necessary for integrating the organization Source: Adapted from Shoal S. And Grafton L. â€Å"Integrating the Enterprise. † MIT Sloan Management Review, Fall 2002, and Well P. , Suburban’s M. , and Broadband M. IT Infrastructure for Strategic Agility. MIT Center for Information Systems Research Working Paper No. 329, April 2002 The CIO organization or IBM business transmission integrates all the business units across geographies and transform strategic business priorities into initiatives of transformation. The company is entitled for maintaining IT Landscape as per the strategic roadman provided. According to Gravesend (2012), any organization does require strateg ic planning. It provides them the leverage to enhance their capabilities and gives them a direction. There are many aspects of planning which collectively make a strategic plan. Strategic planning helps keep focus on the area that is most responsible for boosting the profit levels and overall performance of organization. Since it leads organization to be focused it automatically makes organization polish its skills that are more required in running the business in an efficient and effective way. Innovation and new offerings are always very important for any company to increase its sales. Variety in new products is the obvious way but the manager must work on the execution of the issuance of new product because most of the times poorly executed new offering perform poorly ND they end up in big losses. The basic need to implement EAI in the organization focused on the provision of the information and successful strategies in order to feed in the data before hand. This information should be sufficient enough for both stakeholders I. E. Team designing the software as well the top managers making use of the information stored. In order to address loop holes in the system, a best- practice approach must be used in the system. The imposed system should be open to any kind of re purposing and time should be saved by doing re purposing instead of re-inventing. Secondly, it is desirable that system provides future state of the IT landscape along with existing risk and cost analysis. One way of getting growth is to take full advantage of learning curve and utilizing economies of scale. Learning curve makes you more efficient in your production process. It tells you how to fully utilize your resources. Economies of scales help in reduction of average cost because of factors like managerial specialization and buying power. Strategic implementation is an ongoing process of an organization’s plans which they made in order to survive and to earn profit for a longer period of time. It consists of series of action plans which are integrated to each other. Strategic implementation of the plans which were proposed for the extension and growth are very vital. The long term strategy can help them create a loyal customer and to get more profitable branches which can earn profit for at least five years. The implementation of EAI is found successful in the organization and supports the business functions across geographies. The Enterprise architecture used in the IBM is supported by Coachman methodology. His model is based on the integration of the organization which is clearly addressed in this section (lbs., 2013). Comparison of Literature and current practice Literature has enlightened many aspects of the information which can help any organization to prosper. The problem which they are facing is that they do not use any information system which integrates the employees. They are lacking in the internal information. According to literature there are many tools which will help the organization to increase their productivity. Software like management information system, decision support system and others can help to improve the information flow within the organization. The current situation is that they are losing customers because of the service delivery time. Information system will align all the departments and will provide the information about the customer which will increase the overall flow of information. Literature suggests that internal and external flow of information is very important for all the organization. Stakeholders must be contacted in decision making process. Decision support system integrates all the stakeholders and provides the best possible solution to any business scenario. Internal information with the organization must be improved and transaction recessing system will be helpful to record all the business transactions. It was found in literature that information and feedback from employees and customer is very important and many organizations lose their customers because of this issue. Conclusion The report provides many aspects and after analyzing the literature and the other aspect it was found that companies must include information system in their system. It was found that communication with stakeholders is very important for any organization. They are the pillar of organization and help to build the reputation of NY organization. Organizations must contact different stakeholders and must take their views about the problems they are facing. The other dimensions which were found that management information system, decision support system and other systems are enhancing the capabilities of the organization. In service industry, the most important part is service delivery and these information systems are contributing to increase the performance. Internal and external sources of information are found very important for the organizations and they help to analyze the need of customer. How to cite Literature Review on IT architecture, Essays

Saturday, December 7, 2019

Principles of Assessment in Lifelong Learning free essay sample

Task A part a The assessment process is a vital part to teaching in the lifelong learning sector. All assessment requires the collection and recording of evidence of student learning. There are many aspects to assessment which will begin from the point of the leaner completing their initial application form. The principles of assessment come under three different headings, Initial assessment, formative assessment and summative assessment. Each of the assessment criteria come with specific outcomes for the learner this will assure the learner is getting the best possible outcome to their learning. Looking at figure 6. 1 Gravells, A (pg112) assessment cycle as shown below The initial assessment will be the crucial part of the learning journey. This will provide the relevant information needed to decide the leaner’s starting point. It is the level from which the learner’s progress and also achievement can be calculated. As stated by Green, M. (2003) â€Å"Initial assessment needs to be done with learners rather than to them. It should be of benefit to learners and help them feel positive about themselves and their potential to learn. Initial assessment may start with establishing the learners, interests, aspirations; experience and motivation or it may be part of a â€Å"getting to know you† activity in induction. It allows you to look at the learning styles which are relevant to each learner. Whatever method you choose it needs to be flexible and should reflect the nature of the learner. From using a range of assessment methods it will enable you to summarize the learners starting point. Whichever method is chosen, it is important that initial assessment contains some form of skill/knowledge assessment which can be validated by the tutor. The initial assessment will allow the planning for any other services which may be required to assist the learner. It is essential that all interaction which takes place with the learner on the initial interview is recorded, this is done for the protection of the learner also the tutor can refer back to any conversation which has taken place. The recording of information will make sure the learner is on the correct course at the correct level, the learner actually wants to access the course. Planning for the assessment is basically you and your learner agreeing on which type and which methods of assessment are suitable. This will vary from learner to learner as they all have different needs and also very often different learning styles. Also included in the planning assessment is setting appropriate target dates setting with both the learner this could also involve other members of staff. Assessment activity is all about how to assess the activity and what methods could be used. For example if it is a student led assessment they could be completing the requested assignment or even gathering some form competent evidence. If tutor/assessor led this could be observation, questioning or even photographic evidence. After the three initial assessments have been completed it is then time to look at the assessment decision and feedback, this enables the tutor to make the decision on whether the learner has been successful or otherwise. This is the point in which the tutor/assessor is able to give constructive feedback to the learner stating if any further actions are required. Reviewing the progress means that any assessment plan can be review and altered at any one time to meet the learners required needs at the time, or upon completion of either the programme or the course. The review process enables you as the tutor to sit with your learner and give the opportunity you both time to discuss any relevant issues you may feel will aid in their learning. By reviewing the assessment activities which you use this will give you an opportunity to amend any if necessary. The formative assessment is the second strand of the assessment process. â€Å"formative assessments are ongoing practices that help both the teacher and student evaluate and reflect on how they are both doing, and what changes either or both might need to make to become a more effective teacher and learner. Larry Ferlazzo (no date) Assessment for learning is also known as formative assessment. Assessment for learning is the process of seeking and interpreting evidence in use by learners and their teachers to decide where the learners are in their learning, where they need to go, and how best to get there. Since the goal of formative assessment is to gain an understanding of what students know (and dont know) in order to make responsive changes in teaching and learning. Techniques such as teacher observation and classroom discussion have an important place alongside analysis of tests and homework. Much of what tutors and learners do in the classroom can be described as assessment for learning. (Black and Wiliam, 1998) says â€Å"Assessment for learning can be defined as ‘all those activities undertaken by teachers and/or by their students, which provide information to be used as feedback to modify the teaching and learning activities in which they are engaged’ Formative assessment should occur regularly throughout the instructional process and, According to the National Center for Fair and Open Testing (NCFOT) (1999), Careful documentation can allow formative assessments to be used for summative purposes. The manner in which summative assessments are reported helps determine whether they can be easily translated for formative purposesespecially by the student, teacher, and parent. (Ainsworth amp; Viegut, 2006) state â€Å"By varying the type of assessment you use over the course of the week, you can get a more accurate picture of what students know and understand, obtaining a multiple-measure assessment ‘window into student understanding Some examples of a formative assessment could be: * Asking questions * observations * self assessments * quizzes (sometimes) * learner record keeping Thomas R. Guskey suggests â€Å"that for assessments to become an integral part of the instructional process, teachers need to change their approach in three important ways. They must 1) use assessments as sources of information for both students and teachers, 2) follow assessments with high-quality corrective instruction, and 3) give students second chances to demonstrate success (2007). Assessment of learning is also known as summative assessment, assessments used to sum up a learners achievement. Summative assessment can be carried out as particular stages of the course or learning rogramme are completed, or at the end, whichever seems appropriate. Where achievement is recorded on an on-going basis, summative assessment may mean bringing all the evidence together, rather than carrying out an additional set of assessment activities. This means that all the requirements stipulated by the examining body are all collated and correct. Assignments to be marked and graded appropriately, making sure the work is that of the learners and no one else’s. . Examples of summative assessment can be a written examination. Reliability is essential as they are used numerically to classify learners and compare them to each other. Traditional unit tests (multiple choice, true/false and sort answer questions) are poor summative assessments as they rarely require the application of skills and concepts or the demonstration of understandings rather than a mere reporting of information. The best summative assessments often incorporate the essential question(s) that have focused the unit, requiring students to answer one or more of the essential questions drawing upon ideas from personal experience, from the texts studied, and from new text(s) encountered as a part of the assessment. Assessment methods Within my area of childcare/sexual health I use many varied types of assessment. The assessment criteria I use are based on the level of the learner and the suitability to the specific unit within the assignment. By using various methods of assessment I get a clearer picture of what went well with both tutor and learner and what was not so good so improvements can be made. Use accurate assessment to effectively plan to ensure all groups of students are suitably challenged and supported. Use a variety of strategies (ASL) to ensure students know where they are and what they need to do to improve in relation to their target grades. These must include: * Skilful Questioning and other forms of oral feedback (relating to lesson objectives) which gauge and probe student understanding, as well as re-shaping of explanations and tasks. * Frequent written feedback (Marking), which follows Strengths, Attitude to learning, Level and Target (SALT) and where targets set are detailed enough that students can make progress. * Peer and/or self-assessment Photographic assessment Photographic assessments are used usually with another form of assessment, observation or verbal. Photographic assessment allows the learner to do practical activities and have a photographic record of their achievements these can then be placed either into a book or a file and annotated by the learner which will explain the type of activity which had taken place. If this is done on a regular basis with activities at different levels the learner can see the progress which has been made. If and when using photographic evidence it should always be signed and authenticated by both the learner and the tutor. Is it valid? Yes as the photographic evidence will show as long as the photograph is annotated, dated and signed by a tutor/teacher. If the evidence is not current i. e. the picture taken six months before the criteria may have changed so photographic evidence may not be required or be insufficient for the amount of work needing to be produced. As with positives there are also some negative points with this kind of assessment. * Some learners may not give permission to be photographed * It may mean learners are absent purposely to avoid taking part in the lesson. * You need to make sure all the equipment works and you have all your resources to hand. Verbal Questioning This is an excellent way to find out if the learner has understood the task which has been set for them. You can use the lesson objective in this case to keep referring back to. The questioning can be either informal or formal. You could state you are going to recap the lesson, stating you will be asking each learner a question at the end. This method is used quite a lot as it continually assess the learner knowledge. Giving the students positive feedback throughout telling them no answer is wrong getting them to expand on the answer they have just given. Demonstrations can be done with this method as you could demonstrate the subject at hand, asking questions continually and the students responding accordingly. * The down side is often learners are worried they will give the wrong answer. * They may feel embarrassed taking in front of others Observation Observational assessment is the perfect way to observe the students as they work on a specific project. This promotes independent learning; gaining more than one view point also the learning is timed and controlled. This enables the teacher to roam around the classroom, occasionally offering guidance and encouragement as the students work. Whist walking around the classroom the teacher is able to take notes on how students are performing and also whether or not modifications need to be made to the assignment. The observation works well when the teacher wishes to monitor how students work together in groups or individually. The observational process is also a useful to monitor behavior within the session. This is turn enables the teacher to move the learner(s) if necessary. * Students may not participate in the session as they feel they don’t have the relevant information to give. May not get a true reflection of the outcome as some learners may come out with untruths. Portfolios Many aspects of the portfolio and the portfolio process provided assessment opportunities that contributed to improved work through feedback, conversations about content and quality, and other assessment relevant discussions. The collection also served to demonstrate progress and inform and support summative evaluations. The relationship between assessment and instruction requires re-examination so that information gathered from learner discussions can be used for instructional purposes. The disadvantages of this could be * Time consuming for staff marking them * Difficult to ensure reliability between staff * Can encourage cheating re ownership of work It is important that all learners being assessed by this means must have a shared understanding of the level expected of their work. It is good practice to show learners relevant examples and suggest a proposed format, including suggesting a physical size, as this will help your back! If the nature of the evidence needed from students is transparent, this can aid the marking and go towards reliability between staff. Also preparing a marking proforma for all staff should help. As portfolio building is usually time consuming, offer interim assessment opportunities so that learners can receive advice on whether the evidence they are assembling is appropriate. Consider assessing the portfolios as a team, with each giving comments on a feedback sheet which could also have positives on the portfolio as this aids feedback for learners. Self-Assessment/Peer Assessment Learners can only achieve a learning goal if they understand that goal, and can assess what they need to do to reach it. The ability to assess one’s own work is essential in acquiring that understanding. Peer assessment is also valuable because the interchange will be in a language that learners themselves would use, also because learning is enhanced when leaners themselves tak on the roles of teachers and examiners of others. Self-assessment and peer assessment is used to log the progress. This can be done by mind mapping in different colours. First colour what they know, second colour some of the information you have imparted, third colour all the information and what their peers know. This could be done on several different occasions to assess the progress which has been made, also to identify any areas of improvement, show the strengths of the learner. Below is a chart which I use and can be altered to allow for differentiation and levelling. The peer assessment could be a quiz which they complete they exchange papers to mark each other’s. This can give a sense of ownership to the student. In conclusion I feel that assessment is a necessary part of the learning process for both learner and tutors alike. It enables tutors and educational establishments to keep up to date records of the progress of each learner. Ofsted or any other government expectorate will able to see regular progress, marking from the members of staff and also positive comments with identifiable areas of any improvement required. Task B The assessment process is an on-going process to which all learners should be involved in. One of the main objectives to assessment is to enable all learners to take part at their own level. The need for inclusivity is paramount when doing assessment to enable each learner to be assessed at their own level. If necessary other services may need to be involved i. English as an additional Language (EAL) this will need liaison with each subject leader and the co-ordinator for EAL. This will then look at the specific needs of the learner, ensure that assessment practice conforms with equality of opportunity, and monitor the performance of EAL and ethnic minority students, setting them relevant challenging targets, and finally analyse and interpret the performance of EAL and ethnic minority stu dents at the end of key stages. Whichever assessment method I have chosen it needs to address the intended curriculum outcomes and also the continuum of learning that is required to reach the outcomes. As I am assessing the learners they need to understand clearly what they are trying to learn, and what is expected of them. In turn they are given feedback I give them around the quality of their work and what in turn they can do to improve it. The advice they are given from me the tutor will go to making the necessary improvements. During this time they learners are fully involved in deciding what needs to be done next, and the relevant people who can give them help if required.