* Shifting the Culture of Feedback: Formative Assessment * (Previously shared at Advance HE & Three Rivers Conference 2022)

What did the students think?

"Ohh yeah, this this model definitely works a hell of a lot better for for especially for practical group stuff..."

"...It's almost as if we're, like, floating on like a really calm river. Almost. And you just sort of gently nudging us along..."

"I think I think check in points are always valuable to have and I'm quite confused as to why they're not already in other modules. It seems like quite a basic thing..."

Student, James D

This presentation describes an ACTIVE RESEARCH PROJECT focusing on a process-driven practise-based delivery model.

"Bringing Formative Assessment into a module enhances the learning experience - and aids progression" - Sam Elkington, Teesside University

Why did we do this? Designed to improve the student experience, measure learning and improve progression.

How did we do it? A structured-three phase delivery model with a formative assessment point.

Students, how do you feel about this process delivery model?

Students said...

"I'd prefer this delivery process because it is very beneficial to have several feedback sessions throughout the term. It helps me to have an idea of where to give if I get lost or unsure about how I should proceed." -

Sam A, Teesside University, June 2022

"The first (check) point was a really good idea because that's usually the OH-NO-moment, Oh no, we really need to pull our fingers out and like, actually give this a proper good go."

(student J.D)

Students, how was this delivery model process compared to your standard modules?

Students said...

"So in other modules it can be hard to figure out when am I supposed to (start) When am I supposed to have this much done by ... this (delivery model) made it a little bit less stressful, just knowing you were on the right track and doing the right thing for that time."

Student, Jamie S

Students, would you prefer this process delivery for your other modules?

"Ohh yeah, this model definitely works a hell of a lot better for for especially for practical group stuff."

Student, James D

"Yeah, just having that clear set out was very useful..."

Student, Jamie S

Here's a diagram showing how we structured the module differently to others:

WHY did we do it? Here's some context for the research intervention...

Q: is summative assessment a measurement of learning or a measurement of completion of a task?

Q: Are students being measured on ‘delivering an outcome’ or ‘participation in learning’?

Q: Where (which point in module) do students focus their energy and attention?

RESULTS

Highlights from student feedback via Microsoft forms:

Here's four of the questions and responses:

Summary of student feedback:

Students preferred this practice-focused process model than to other product delivery models

This model provides more structure, helps the students to orient themselves and know they are on track

Having more structure including regular check in points (formative assessment points) is less stressful and like a 'calm river'!

Students would prefer this process model for all their modules

For more information r.dodd@tees.ac.uk

Discussion: Obstacles v Opportunities

Next steps at Teesside University:

  • Block teaching
  • Student Planner / Journal
  • MIMA Creative Week

Activity & take away

Use template to design your own 3 phase delivery model

CREATED BY
Rachel Dodd

Credits:

Created with images by Rawpixel.com - "Happy online feedback" • Rawpixel.com - "People Hands Holding Question Marks"