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The Edexcel Level 5 BTEC Higher National Diploma in Nautical Science provides opportunities for progression to higher education vocational qualifications such as a full or part-time degree in Nautical Science, Maritime Studies or other related areas.
The assessment of these BTEC qualifications is criterion-referenced and centres will be required to assess the learners’ evidence against published learning outcomes and assessment criteria. This gives transparency to the assessment process and provides for the establishment of national standards for each qualification.
It is recognised that learners present with varying experiences of education and training and/or work and centres are encouraged to take an open approach to the choice of assessment methods in the general guidance from Edexcel and other support material such as Tutor Support Material. In particular Edexcel has always supported a learner-centred approach to learning and the associated assessment so that maximum use is made of learner’s environment and experience.
A range of assessment methods are available to centres that include open-book projects or assignments, practical tests, closed or open short answer questions, essays, performance or artefacts. Centres are expected to use assessment methods that are fit-for-purpose in relation to the size and subject content of each qualification and the nature of the learners so that there are maximum opportunities to present evidence that will meet the requirements of the learning outcomes and assessment criteria. For part time learners who principally study for the BTEC Higher National Certificate, Edexcel encourages centres to make maximum use of the learners’ current and/or past work and other experience. For the full time learners on the BTEC Higher National Diploma programmes, while full use should be made of any work experience, it is likely that realistic case studies and research into companies and organisations will offer a more appropriate assessment approach
The guidance section of the specifications and the Information for Tutors section of the units will provide guidance about suitable assessment strategies.
Candidates are required to complete all units in Group A plus four optional units from Group B