What is an effective method for assessing a student's skill level in golf?

Utilizing performance assessments is an effective method for assessing a student's skill level in golf because it involves observing the student in action, which provides direct insights into their abilities, strengths, and areas for improvement. This method allows instructors to gather relevant data on various aspects of the student's game, including their swing mechanics, putting skills, and course management. Performance assessments can take the form of on-course evaluations, practice sessions, or monitored drills, which offer a practical understanding of how the student applies their skills in real-world scenarios.

In contrast, relying solely on interviews limits the ability to gauge a student's true performance because it relies on subjective self-assessment rather than objective observation. Practicing without feedback can lead to the reinforcement of ineffective habits, making it difficult to track actual progress or skill level. Using only written tests does not effectively measure a golfer’s practical abilities or their application of skills in dynamic playing situations, as golf is a physical and situational sport that requires hands-on evaluation to fully understand a player's competency. Thus, performance assessments provide a comprehensive and accurate representation of a golfer's skill level.