In pursuit of excellence : using high stakes assessment strategies as a teaching and learning tool for the development of performers of excellence

This paper presents a number of research challenges in understanding the way that high stakes assessment strategies can be used in the development and training of the performer, whether as a musician, actor or dancer, to a professional level of excellence. The paper begins by defining the nature of live performance and the way that high stakes assessment strategies can be used as a teaching and learning tool, as well as an assessment tool, that has relevance to the performing artist as they strive to achieve their performance goals. Furthermore, the paper investigates the use of high stakes assessment strategies in developing generic skills for performers who work as soloists or as members of performing groups. Finally, the paper suggests areas for firture research to refine thisfiamework in the context of the tertiary environment.