Assignment and examination-based evaluation are two of the most common assessment methods for evaluating the progress of students in their learning. Moreover, the essential purpose of evaluating student learning is to determine whether the students are achieving the learning outcomes laid out for them.
Assignment based evaluation Vs Exam based evaluation
Now the big question is, which one is more effective? An assignment-based evaluation or an exam-based evaluation.
Research and records indicate that, over the last 40 years in the United Kingdom and other nations, the assignment-based evaluation or completion of the module assessment of higher education coursework (postgraduate, Master’s & Ph.D.) has significantly enhanced. This has been exemplified in numerous academic research articles. It is likewise recognized that a higher proportion of learners themselves chose to be assessed along with the basis of coursework or assignment. The study also shows that the assignment-based assessment continues to yield a better score than the examination alone. A well-known researcher on this subject in 2015, John T.E. Richardson, found that student examination-based performance is more common. In its conclusions, the researcher emphasized the lack of feedback in an examination-based appraisal and its deficiency in the proper evaluation of the scope and depth of learning per se. The researcher also reasoned that, rather than promoting successful learning, an exam-based assessment merely measures knowledge at the particular moment, it means that the student’s examination experience does not make a reasonable contribution to learning compared to the way the assignment-based evaluation does. However, the review-based evaluation cannot be rejected; a blended methodology can be implemented. The evaluation of the coursework has to be given more attention because it provides students with a stronger learning experience.
Advantages of Assignment based evaluation
Needless to mention, assignment-based assessments can encourage higher teaching and learning experiences for students to think critically, develop new perspectives, resolve problems, navigate incidents, and ask the right questions. The project results in better learning skills for students in general. Here are some of the distinct benefits of assignment-based evaluation:
- Enhances cognitive and analytical capabilities – The rational reasoning of students is strengthened. They will get the opportunity to exercise and develop their mental and innovative ability. Assignments offer students a chance to experiment while becoming unconventional. It offers students the ability to be more productive and flexible.
- Learners become research-oriented – Through their assignments, students are required to carry out an in-depth study of their specific topic. By doing so, they are throwing out different theories and exploring their subject. Research on their assignment experience also enhances the student’s practical and thought-provoking skills at a professional level.
- Increases cognizance and understanding about the topic — Assignments allow students to understand the technical and practical information about their subject that they cannot completely grasp in theory. Students become more aware of various insightful principles and perspectives through their coursework, which ultimately leads to the rational development of a framework for their topic.
- Improves the technical writing skills – Students are likewise expected to compose their assignments in the form of reports and on a certain study or scenario. The writing skills and talents are strengthened in this way. In the long term, students can articulate their thoughts and ideas more efficiently.
At Westford University College (WUC), we have implemented an assessment-based evaluation approach to assess the learning of our students. We periodically assess our MBA students with assigned coursework (assignment) to read their writing and work skills, discernment of the subject, and overall success in their course. We assume that high quality and equal evaluation are important to the development of effective learning.
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