GenEd's occupational interest profile has been developed so that only a basic level of education is required to complete it. The general ability assessment battery spans verbal, numerical and abstract reasoning. It explores an individual's ability to think logically using words, numbers and abstract concepts, assessing competence in understanding and developing logical arguments and solving complex logical problems. The combined tests take into account educational factors as well as natural or fluid ability levels. As such they are ideally suited to assess individuals of various educational backgrounds and cultural groups.

Occupational Interest Profile
The Occupational Interest Profile consists of 122 questions and has no time limit, however it is likely that people will take 20-30 minutes to complete it.

Verbal Reasoning
The Verbal Reasoning assessment consists of 35 multiple choice questions and has a time limit of 8 minutes.

Numerical Reasoning
The Numerical Reasoning assessment consists of 25 multiple choice questions and has a time limit of 10 minutes.

Abstract Reasoning
The Abstract Reasoning assessment consists of 25 multiple choice questions and has a time limit of 10 minutes.

GenEd is already being used by a number of Connexions Services and Education and Training Providers. Positive feedback from clients has lead to current research into the integration of both a Motivation Factors and a Learning Styles assessment as well as additional test options e.g. Clerical, Mechanical Reasoning, Spatial Awareness etc. Meanwhile plans are underway for other potential developments to include additional assessments to meet the needs of other target groups e.g. Gifted and Talented.

GenEd’s development has been based on the specific needs of users and in line with this, it is currently being mapped against the Connexions Service APIR Framework. We are encouraging users to share information where appropriate and we have established the facility for GenEd to interface directly with other management information systems upon request e.g. Connexions Service Databases.The possibilities for the assessment tool are great as the software system offers potential to include specific diagnostic assessments for specialist agencies e.g. Probation Services, Employment Services etc.

Existing users of the assessment tool consider GenEd's key benefits to include the following:

• enhances the overall quality of vocational decision-making.
• provides reliable and valid tests, which identify competence levels, relevant skills and occupational preferences.
• offers objective insights, which can reveal hidden potential and the need for further investigation.
• achieves a positive impact on targets e.g. retention.
• allows partner organisations to reduce levels of duplication and re-assessment.

Assessment Manager, Paul Wilkinson commented on the recent introduction of GenEd, "GeneSys Educational brings objective insights to the advice and guidance process which can only lead to improved employment and learning choices and increased achievement and retention levels."

The introduction of basic & keySKILLBUILDER (bksb) to GenEd, offers a recognised best practice platform for clear initial assessment of basic and key skills. It assesses levels of numeracy/application of number and literacy/communication and signposts relevant in-depth diagnostic assessments from Entry 1 through to Key Skills Level 3. There is no requirement for a separate screening test and the report provides clear indicators of current levels and includes dyslexia/dyscalculia/ESOL signifiers. The assessment aids decisions on the level of vocational or academic qualification for candidates/learners. These lead to bksb diagnostics which automatically produce individual learning plans and identify and supply appropriate learning resources.

To find out more, contact A&MC for a confidential, no-obligation discussion on 01925 752033 or send enquiries by e-mail to: amcampbell@gened.co.uk.