Assessment of Learning

Assessment in higher education shapes the experience of students and influences their behaviour even more than the teaching they receive. (Gibbs & Simpson, 2004)

What is Assessment?

Assessment is a central element in the overall quality of teaching and learning in higher education. Assessment of students' learning can take many forms including essays, portfolios, tests, performances, presentations, design proposals, and more.

The quality of assessment procedures can be enhanced at each stage of learning by:

  • Establishing expectations for what students will learn and how they will demonstrate their learning
  • Selecting a type of assessment that matches the learning objectives
  • Ensuring that the assessment type and expectations provides students with ample opportunity to demonstrate their learning
  • Providing specific, timely, and individual feedback to students (Seven Principles of Good Feedback Practice)