Broaden your career horizons with new online assessor, moderator courses

There’s nothing like a new year – especially after the challenges of last year – to make some new and exciting changes. You might be considering adding a new skill to your CV, or looking for an opportunity to earn more money. If so, look no further than the online assessor and moderator training programmes by Media Works, part of Optimi Workplace, South Africa’s leading adult education and training provider.

The assessor training programme teaches participants to assess the learning outcomes of individuals studying a particular course. This is done in terms of specified criteria using pre-designed assessment instruments. Although it is ideally suited for educational professionals, such as teachers, lecturers and facilitators, this programme also stands to benefit those working in other sectors.

“Our assessor training programme is a generic programme,” says Louis Nel, the National Manager for Implementation Quality Assurance at Media Works. “This means that, provided you are proficient in your particular field, you have a qualification higher than what you’re assessing, and are registered with the relevant SETA, you’ll be able to become an assessor for the programmes you are registered for. It’s not a requirement that you already have experience as a facilitator.”

The assessor training programme is an NQF Level 5 qualification and comprises 15 credits. You need to have an NQF Level 4 in order to complete it. Once complete, you’ll be able to demonstrate understanding of outcomes-based assessments, prepare for assessments, conduct assessments, provide feedback on assessments and review assessments.

Like many of its other offerings, Media Works has now made its assessor training programme available online. Originally conducted in person over five consecutive days, the new online course takes a blended learning approach. Live classes are conducted every Saturday for five weeks, and printed material as well video, audio and interactive online learning resources are provided.

“The assessor training programme is convenient, affordable and open to learners across the country,” adds Nel. “You don’t need to take time off work or pay for transport and accommodation in order to do the training. What’s more, with this qualification in hand, you could make your services available to a variety of organisations, from schools to corporates, and so supplement your income.”

Registered assessors are listed on the Web site of the relevant Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) and are likely to find employment this way.

Participants who have completed their assessor training and gained some relevant experience are also welcome to complete Media Works’ moderator training programme. With a moderator qualification, you’ll be able to moderate portfolios as well as advise other assessors.

Media Works has run two successful online assessor training programmes to date.

The next assessor programme begins on Saturday, 20 February 2021, and runs for five weeks on consecutive Saturdays from 8am to midday. The total cost is R3 335 per person, including VAT, and registration closes on 12 February. In order to participate, a matric is the minimum entry requirement.

The next moderator programme begins on Saturday, 27 February 2021, and runs for three weeks on consecutive Saturdays from 8am to midday. The total cost is R2 875 per person, including VAT, and registration closes on 19 February. To be eligible for the moderator course, you need to have completed the assessor programme.

For more information or to book your place, please e-mail [email protected].