3.4 Assessment and large groups

Rust (2001) contains an extensive review of issues related to assessment of large groups. The concern is that the ever-decreasing staff–student ratios are likely to reduce the quality of assessment and the amount of formative assessment, thereby reducing the amount and quality of feedback that a student can obtain about his/her strengths and areas that need further work.

Issues relating to large group assessment

• Use computer-aided marking where appropriate.
• Change exam regulations and rubric – for example, shorter exams, lower word limits, moderation versus second marking.
• Consider making a desired but non-assessed piece of work a course requirement for sitting the exam.
• Do not accept late submissions.