Assessment Methodology, Context, and Empowerment: The Ace Model of Skill Development

Abstract

The assessment, context, and empowerment (ACE) model is offered as a framework for designing a course in which students and instructors work as partners to develop students’ skills. The use of this model provides students with targeted opportunities for practice on multiple skill dimensions while linking the dimensions to relevant contexts. In a triangular procedure, students receive developmental feedback from three sources: themselves, their peers, and their instructor. Procedures for student empowerment, special responsibilities for the instructor, and lessons learned from using this approach are outlined.