FLEXIBLE AND “MODULAR” ASSESSMENT

One of the things I’ve learnt over years of teaching is that students’ abilities, interests and engagement vary. Some will be extremely engaged and want to pursue a topic in depth with a longer research essay. Some will be comfortable with producing a video or podcast, and others will stay with a written paper or take-home exam. So, apart from 10% for the summary and selection of the readings for the course and 10% for tutorial participation, the remaining 80% can be made up of a range of options.

 

The possibilities could include:

 

• a research essay of about 4,000 words worth 80% of the total assessment for the course.

• a first essay of about 2,000 words worth 40% and a second essay of about 2,000 words worth 40%.

• a video presentation or a podcast worth 40% and a 2,000 word essay worth 40%. A bibliography must also be submitted with the video or podcast.

 

So the combinations which are possible are the following:

 

• Research essay (4,000 words) – 80%

• 2X essays (2,000 words each) – 40% each

• Essay (2,000 words) – 40% +Video presentation – 40%

• Essay (2,000 words) – 40% + Podcast – 40%

• Essay (2,000 words) – 40% + Take-home exam – 40%

• Take-home exam – 40% + Video presentation – 40%

• Take-home exam – 40% + Podcast – 40%

 

As long as it adds up to 80%

 

I have found that students appreciate the flexibility that this allows and also take the opportunity to try something new.