Evaluation mapping activity, coupled with responses from a learner reflection review, provides the opportunity for training providers to explore the alignment of each apprenticeship intended purpose and learning outcomes within the evaluation objectives and methods to assess success during learning.
This would enable a review/intervention to identify any gaps in either the way the intended purpose of study is being articulated or the evaluation questions or methods being used to assess whether that purpose (or intended learning / outcomes) were being met.
Research towards several design shifts to individual apprenticeship learning may occur as a result of mapping activity. For example, an initial exploration of the intended outcomes of the Level 5 LACW reveals an intention to develop leadership skills in adult learners, however current research has suggested the mapping activity revealed there was no aspect of program delivery or evaluation specifically addressing this outcome. This may lead to a focused consideration of whether leadership was is in fact being developed through the apprenticeship standard, or if this was just an incidental development due work-based competence and experience.
The mapping activity may reveal a substantial amount of qualitative, post program data has to be collected across apprenticeships, however a gap analysis may also provide a clearer picture of a lack of data being collected prior to engagement in IAG and career education interventions.
