The Role of Assessment Strategies In Enhancing Learner Performance and Employability at Awil College: A Case Study Of Private Tertiary Educational Institutions In Botswana

Abstract

Effective assessments are critical in enhancing learner performance and employability. This study was meant to explore the role of selected assessment strategies in enhancing the performance and employability of the learners of AWIL College in Gaborone, Botswana. The study focused on four assessment strategies namely formative assessment, summative assessment, criterion-referenced assessment, and work-integrated assessment strategies. The study adopted the positivist research paradigm and the survey research design with the quantitative research methodology being used to collect data through a structured, self- administered questionnaire. Data was collected from a population of 450 AWIL College students from which a sample of 140 respondents was chosen through the random sampling strategy. From the 140 questionnaires that were distributed, 107 were completed and returned culminating in a 76% response rate. Data was analysed through the Statistical Package for Social Sciences software and was presented through figures, tables, and descriptive and inferential statistics such as the mean, standard deviation, correlation analysis, regression analysis and analysis of variance. The reliability of the study was tested through the Cronbach Alpha internal consistency reliability test while validity was established through factor analysis. The results of the study revealed that to some extent, the respondents felt that they gained performance and employment skills through assessments; assessments exposed them to real world scenarios and provided learners with transferrable skills that enhanced their employability. However, to a lesser extent, assessments replicated real world challenges; internship improved the learners‘ thinking capacity and problem-solving skills; assessments determined whether the goals of education were satisfied. Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended that the institution should have clear assessment strategies that are in alignment with individual learner performance and employability goals so that sustainable learner performance and employability can be attained.