In a recent professional development session, Kaziba Stephen emphasized the importance of designing and scoring Continuous Assessment Items (CAIs) with a focus on the affective and psychomotor learning domains. He explained the five progressive levels in each domain—starting from basic awareness (receiving/imitation) to internalization and mastery (characterization/naturalization).
Kaziba highlighted that effective teaching must go beyond cognitive skills, encouraging learners to engage emotionally and physically through hands-on tasks and real-life scenarios. He guided teachers on creating CAIs that not only assess knowledge but also track growth in attitudes, values, and practical skills.
The session also included practical strategies for lesson planning, CAI development, and using checklists for better assessment. Teachers were urged to work collaboratively, integrate CAIs into their term plans, and use existing opportunities like “plucked call” sessions for administration. Science teachers were specifically encouraged to begin preparations for upcoming innovation competitions.
Next Steps for Teachers:
- Develop CAIs that progress through all five levels of learning domains
- Use realistic, subject-relevant scenarios in assessments
- Improve ICT skills for digital CAI development
- Review past PD sessions via the UPSTU YouTube channel
This session reinforced that comprehensive assessment must include what students feel and can do—not just what they know.