Ofqual's CASLO Research Programme
Over the past few years, Ofqual has invested in a programme of research into what we now refer to as the ‘CASLO’ approach to qualification design.
Over the past few years, Ofqual has invested in a programme of research into what we now refer to as the ‘CASLO’ approach to qualification design.
The CASLO approach is a high-level template for designing qualifications. It became increasingly popular as a basis for designing VTQs in England during the 1980s and (especially) into the 1990s. We contrast it with the classical approach to qualification design, which lies at the heart of most traditional tests, exams, and qualifications in England and overseas.
Until recently this family of qualifications had no distinguishing name. We decided to call them ‘CASLO’ qualifications because they are all designed to Confirm the Acquisition of Specified Learning Outcomes.
Our programme of research includes 4 distinct strands:
-
descriptive – to explain what we mean by the CASLO approach to qualification design and, therefore, what we mean by a CASLO qualification
-
functional – to describe how CASLO qualifications work (in contrast to the more widely recognised family of ‘classical’ qualifications that are designed differently)
-
historical – to understand the origins and evolution of the CASLO approach within the landscape of Vocational and Technical Qualifications (VTQs) in England
-
critical – to consider criticisms that have been levelled at the CASLO approach