The Level Descriptors Guide helps lecturers design learning outcomes, activities, and assessments that match the correct qualification level. In Aotearoa, the NZQCF levels describe the knowledge, skills, and independence students should demonstrate. Using the guide helps ensure your course expectations align with the level students are studying.
A useful idea when applying the guide is “teach toward the verb.” Learning outcomes usually begin with an action verb such as describe, analyse, or evaluate. The verb shows what students must do to demonstrate learning. Because of this, teaching activities and assessments should give students practise doing that exact action.
This connects with constructive alignment. The learning outcome explains the goal, the activities help students practise the skill, and the assessment checks whether students can perform it. When these parts align, students clearly understand what they need to learn and how they will be assessed.
The Level Descriptor PDF is available to download and use as a quick reference. It helps lecturers check that learning outcomes, activities, and assessments match the correct level and support constructive alignment when designing or reviewing courses.
Tip: Highlight the verb in each learning outcome. Then check that your activities and assessments give students practise doing that exact skill.
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