You will notice that the information provided about Carine includes more than what was gathered through the informal interview questions and the checklists. Although they were used as the basis of the initial assessment, the tutor asked additional follow-up questions to learn more about Carine. The tutor also had Carine prioritize her concerns and decide in what order she wanted to learn the skills highlighted. The tutor made notes regarding Carine's comprehension and speaking skills based on what he observed in the interview.

D: Assessing Progress

The checklists provided can be used not only for the initial assessment but referred to every few months so learners can see the progress they have made. It also gives learners an opportunity to revisit their original plans and make changes wherever necessary.

Portfolios

What are portfolios?

Portfolios are files that contain learner work. They are meant to show how a learner has progressed over a period of time.

Basic steps in using portfolios

1. Determine the long-term goals the learner wants to achieve.
2. Break a long-term goal into short-term goals that are both attainable and measurable.
3. Write these short-term goals as goal statements.
4. Set up time to review the contents of the portfolio and redefine goals when necessary.