What methods of assessment can I use and in which contexts?

The assessment has to be based on assessment criteria. Students should not be compared to each other. This is important part of the Biggs’ theory of motivation. Portfolio is good method for assessment when you need to assess the comprehensiveness of the skills of a student. For example if you have to assess how well someone can do hairdos portfolio is good way to do that. Student collects photos and plans of different hairdos he or she has done and demonstrate the skills that way.

When assessing smaller entities observation can be good method. Interviews are good ways to assess theoretical knowledge. Some students may succeed better in written exams compared to interviews but when communicating directly teacher can dig the knowledge out better and the assessment will be more truthful.