How reasonable adjustments can be made to assessments

There are some key aspects to consider when planning whether a reasonable adjustment can be made to an assessment.

Reasonable adjustment, if required, must be implemented before the learner is assessed. This will contribute to allowing the learner to demonstrate their knowledge and skills during the whole placement, as well as the assessment aspect/process.

If the student, educator and educational institution tutor have identified, discussed and implemented reasonable adjustments and with regular review these have allowed successful progression of the student's learning throughout the placement, there is every possibility that continuing these same adjustments will provide the 'level playing field' for the assessment elements of practice placement to be undertaken.

If uncertainty remains, addressing the following key questions can assist:

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What is the focus of the assessment (for example, skills or knowledge)?

Does the assessment method disadvantage the student with a disability?

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How does the method of assessment disadvantage a person with a disability?

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What adjustments can be made to the assessment approach to overcome the specific disadvantage related to the disability? Remember to consider the student as an expert in their support needs and previous adjustments

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Can an alternative assessment be offered? Remember that discussion with the appropriate educational institution tutor is important.

Examples of modifying the assessment method without changing the competence:

A student with a hearing condition in one ear had the layout of the assessment area modified to make sure that service users and carers were on the side from which they could hear best (adapted from HCPC 2015).
It was possible for a student with an anxiety disorder to arrange to complete practice placement during shortened days over a longer period of time to reduce the effect of their condition and allow them to travel outside rush hour. Assessments were also completed within this timeframe (adapted from HCPC 2015).

How reasonable adjustments can be made to assessments