Abstract

A concise description of an extensive research paper. This type of assessment evaluates the students’ ability to concisely summarise and articulate the key points and main ideas of a given topic or research project within a limited word count or time frame.

Annotated bibliography

A comprehensive list of sources accompanied by brief summaries and evaluations that provides a critical analysis of each source’s relevance, reliability, and applicability to a specific research topic.

Artefact

A tangible or digital piece of work such as a project or a portfolio, created by a student to demonstrate their skills, knowledge, or understanding in a particular subject or discipline.

Article

A written piece that students produce, typically following academic conventions, to present a specific topic, and communicate their research findings, or analysis, often demonstrating their understanding, critical thinking, and ability to communicate effectively.

Case study

A detailed analysis and examination of a specific individual, group, or situation, requiring students to identify problems and offer solutions by applying theoretical knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills to understand complex real-life scenarios.

Class tests

An assessment conducted within a classroom setting, invigilated, and typically consisting of short-duration tests or quizzes that assess students’ understanding and retention of recently covered course material.

Critical review

A comprehensive analysis and evaluation of a piece of work, such as an academic article or book, examining its strengths, weaknesses, and implications, while providing a well-supported and objective assessment of its context.

Demonstration

A practical showcase or performance by students to illustrate their skills, knowledge, or competence in a specific task or subject area.

Debate

A structured discussion or argument between individuals or teams presenting opposing viewpoints on a specific topic, engaging in reasoned discourse and persuasive communication to support their respective positions.

Discussion

An interactive exchange of ideas and opinions among students, guided by specific prompts or questions, to assess their ability to analyse, critically reflect, and engage in constructive dialogue on a particular topic or subject matter. This type of assessment can be useful for group oral assessments.

Dissertation

A substantial and in-depth research project or written work undertaken by students under the guidance of a tutor as a requirement for an academic degree, involving original research, analysis, and academic writing on a specific topic withing their field of study.

Essay

A written academic composition that requires students to present a structured and coherent argument, analysis, or interpretation of a topic or subject, typically involving critical thinking and the effective use of evidence and reasoning.

Exams

Formal and invigilated assessments that test students’ knowledge, understanding, and application of course material within a specific timeframe, usually through a series of questions or tasks.

Forum posts

A written short contribution on an online platform posted by students to demonstrate their understanding, engagement, and ability to communicate ideas within a specific topic of subject area.

Interview

A formal conversation where an interviewer assesses an individual or group by asking questions to gather information and evaluate their qualifications, skills, or opinions.

Literature review

A comprehensive examination and analysis of existing academic sources and research on a particular topic, highlighting key findings, gaps, and the overall state of knowledge in the field. This type of assessment requires students to demonstrate their ability to critically evaluate relevant literature.

Journal

A written record where students reflect, document, and analyse their thoughts, experiences, and learning throughout a course or specific educational activity.

Observation

A systematic and purposeful monitoring of and gathering of information about a student’s behaviour, performance, or skills in a specific context or task to assess their abilities, progress, or competencies.

Online quizzes

A brief and typically timed evaluation consisting of questions or tasks designed to test knowledge, understanding, or recall of specific content or concepts. This can typically be completed using online platforms such as Moodle.

Performance/recital

A public presentation or demonstration of skills, talent, or artistic expression, such as music, dance, or theatre, to evaluate a student’s proficiency and mastery in a live performance setting.

Placement

An evaluation of students’ abilities, knowledge, or skills to determine their appropriate level or position within an educational program, course, or job.

Portfolio

A collection of work, often accompanied by summaries, justifications for their inclusion, and reflections on their significance or impact.

Poster

A visual representation or display that combines research or learning outcomes into a self-explanatory display by communicating information, research findings, or creative work in a concise and visually engaging manner, allowing students to showcase their knowledge and presentation skills.

Practicals

An oral or visual communication of information, ideas, or findings, typically in front of an audience, to demonstrate knowledge, convey arguments, or showcase skills in a structured and engaging manner. This mode of assessment can be used to assess students’ practical skills and knowledge.

Presentation

An oral or visual communication of information, ideas, or findings, typically in front of an audience, to demonstrate knowledge, convey arguments, or showcase skills in a structured and engaging manner.

Project

A task or assignment that requires students apply their knowledge, skills, and creativity to plan, execute, and present a tangible outcome or deliverable, showcasing their application of knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and project management skills.

Reflective writing

A thoughtful and introspective exploration of personal experiences, observations, or learning, providing insights and critical analysis that demonstrate self-awareness and growth.

Report

A structured and formal document presenting detailed information, findings, analysis, and recommendations on a specific topic or research inquiry. Reports frequently rely on original research conducted by the students.

Role-play

Students adopt assigned roles or characters to simulate real-life scenarios, demonstrating their understanding, application of skills, and ability to interact and problem-solve within a given context.

Self-evaluation

The process in which students critically assess their own performance, progress, or skills, often through self-reflection and self-assessment tools, to gauge their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

Take-home examinations

Students are given an examination outside of the classroom within a specific timeframe, typically allowing them to research, analyse, and thoughtfully respond to questions or prompts in a more extended format.

Teamwork

An evaluation of the collaborative efforts and abilities of students working together towards a common goal, assessing their communication, coordination, cooperation, and problem-solving skills within a group setting.

Viva voce

An oral examination or interview conducted to assess students’ knowledge, understanding, and ability to discuss and to articulate ideas on a particular subject, as well as to defend their academic work or research.