Development of the student practice evaluation form revised edition package

This paper describes the development of the Student Practice Evaluation Form Revised Edition (SPEF-R) Package. This assessment tool was based on the Student Placement Evaluation Form (SPEF), which was used nationally to evaluate student performance on professional practice placements.

The SPEF-R was developed using an action research process through three cycles of action and reflection: (1) national consultation through telephone interviews with participants from three stakeholder groups (10 academics, 28 practice educators and 18 students); (2) development of the SPEF-R Package; and (3) feedback on draft, piloting and launch.

In cycle 1, the most frequently identified strengths of the SPEF included its structure, comprehensiveness and clarity of expectations and utility in planning student placements. Overall, issues/concerns were less frequently identified and included length and the need for more training. In cycle 2, the SPEF-R package was developed, with key changes made to the SPEF and handbook in response to results and the enhancement of tools for providing feedback on placements and recording practice experience. Cycle 3 involved obtaining feedback on the draft, further revision and launching of the tool.

Action research is useful for addressing practice issues in higher education. The development of the SPEF-R was grounded in contemporary views regarding the provision of formative feedback and based on stakeholders' views. However, further research is required to evaluate its properties as an assessment design. In addition, a training website for professional practice educators was created and an electronic version of the SPEF-R is in development.