Assessment for Learning: An introduction to the ESCAPE project

Abstract

Assessment is a significant aspect of the student learning experience and good assessment engages students with the curriculum; it creates opportunities for dialogue and ultimately stimulates learning. In spite of the accepted significance of assessment within Higher Education, the National Student Survey has in the past few years highlighted assessment and feedback as the lowest scoring aspect of the student experience. Working in partnership with the Business School and the School of Life Sciences the Effecting Sustainable Change in Assessment Practice and Experience (ESCAPE) project set out to support the development of assessment-for-learning initiatives. The ESCAPE project includes a range of curriculum development activities and change management processes. Objectives of the project relate to improving the educational effectiveness and resource efficiency of the assessment practice. An Appreciative Inquiry approach was adopted to help module teams build on existing good assessment practice. Following the design, development and implementation of pilot assessment activities, module teachers are already reporting greater engagement from students in their studies.