Page 44 - AUN-QA

Explanation

Student assessment is one of the most important elements of higher education.
The outcomes of such assessment have a profound effect on students' future
careers. It is therefore important that assessment is carried out professionally at
all times and takes into account the extensive knowledge that exists on testing
and examination processes. Assessment also provides valuable information for
institutions about the efficiency of teaching and learner support. Student
assessment is expected to:

 be designed to measure the achievement of the expected learning
outcomes;
 be fit for purpose, whether diagnostic, formative or summative; have clear
and published grading and marking criteria;
 be undertaken by people who understand the role of assessment in the
students’ progression towards achieving the knowledge and skills
associated with their intended qualification; where possible, not relying on
the evaluation of one single examiner;
 take account of all the possible consequences of examination
regulations;
 have clear regulations covering student absence, illness and other
mitigating circumstances;
 ensure that assessment is conducted securely in accordance with the
institution's stated procedures;
 be subjected to administrative verification in ensuring the effectiveness of
the procedures.
 inform students about the assessment being used for their programme,
what examinations or other assessment methods they will be subjected
to, what will be expected of them, and the criteria that will be applied to
the assessment of their performance.

Diagnostic Questions

− Is entry assessment done on new students?
− Is exit assessment done on departing (graduating) students?
− To what extent do the assessment and examinations cover the content of the
courses and programme? To what extent do the assessment and
examinations cover the objectives of the courses and of the programme as a
whole?
− Is the assessment criterion-referenced?
− Is a variety of assessment methods used? What are they?
− Are the pass/fail criteria clear?
− Are the assessment/examination regulations clear?
− Are any safeguards in place to ensure objectivity?
− Are the students satisfied with the procedures? What about complaints from
students?
− Do clear rules exist for re-assessment and are students satisfied with these?

26 | P a g e