Assessment strategies to support higher level learning in blended delivery

• Published in: Innovations in education and teaching international 2011-02, Vol.48 (1), p.91-100
• Main Authors: Purvis, Alison J., Aspden, Liz J., Bannister, Philip W., Helm, Paul A.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Academic achievement; assessment; blended learning; College Students; Computer architecture; Computer Assisted Instruction; Computer Assisted Testing; e-learning; Educational Innovation; Higher Education; Information Technology; Innovations; Learning; Learning Experience; Student Evaluation; Tutors; United Kingdom
• ISSN: 1470-3297; 1470-3300
• DOI: 10.1080/14703297.2010.543767

A level 6 module was developed in order to implement innovative assessment strategies and encourage higher level learning. The module tutor (one of this paper's authors) was seconded from teaching duties (40%) to the University's academic development unit to work on the module transformation. The rationale for the redesign of the assessment strategy was to enhance the student learning experience whilst taking an innovative approach to computer aided learning and assessment. Information technology enabled assessment strategies and ways of using computer based assessment in higher level learning were examined. The redesigned module has been delivered two years running, and the students' experience of the module evaluated following the final taught session each year. This paper outlines the experiences of the learners and the tutor and considers the potential for future development of blended learning and assessment.