What approach should be taken to create performance tests?

The most effective approach to creating performance tests involves using established task analysis beforehand. This means that before designing the tests, you first identify and analyze the specific tasks and skills that learners need to demonstrate proficiency in. Task analysis helps in breaking down the performance objectives into smaller, measurable components, ensuring that the tests are aligned with the desired competencies.

By conducting a thorough task analysis, you can ensure that the performance tests reflect real-world capabilities and accurately measure the learners' skills in a relevant context. This foundational understanding is crucial for developing valid assessment instruments that effectively gauge learner performance and readiness.

On the other hand, developing tests independently without reviews may lead to gaps in content or alignment with performance goals. Relying solely on peer review could limit the perspectives and insights that can be gained from a broader range of stakeholders. Focusing only on feedback from administrative staff misses critical input from those who are directly engaged in the teaching and learning process. These alternatives lack the structured foundation that task analysis provides, making them less effective for creating comprehensive performance assessments.