Idea

Allow students to retake a module to improve grades that are below the students average

by Anonymous 16 January 2021, 02:56

Category: Assessment and Feedback

Voting closed

Headshot of NTSU's Vice-President Education, Troy BrocklebankThis idea was discussed at Student Council on 9th February 2021 where it was agreed that this should only apply for modules affected by the pandemic. This idea then influenced discussions with NTU.


 

Likes
1 Dislikes

Following the new measures for fair assessment, many students feel let down and not supported. Although the NEC measures provide support prior to submission, there is almost no support for results. In affect, we are being told that we are stuck with poor grades despite a lack of contact time and poor clarity as a result of distance learning.  This isnt the fault of individual tutors - who are trying their hardest -, it is simply because of stretched resources. 
 

Personally, I have sent emails and had to wait days to receive clarity regarding assessments and written communication often doesnt have the same effect as a communication where nuance and feedback questions can be determined and asked. I can only book a 5-10 minute slot each week to ask the tutor for support. This is not enough time for an assessment to be fully supported and informed. 
 

Sheffield Hallam announced their measures for fair assessment, which includes allowing students to retake assessments to improve grades if they have failed or underperformed. I feel this option should be explored for NTU. It will provide support for students who work hard, dont require extensions, but receive a grade that is less than expected. We have all been affected by covid-19 and the university need to be supporting students at all stages of assessment.

For reasons of fairness, I feel this suggestion should be allowed for students who's module grade falls below the students average. For example, student A's average grade across all modules is a mid 2:1. If student A gets a grade of low 2:1 or less then they should be allowed to resit the assessment. 

Comments