Brief notes from the fourth year MSci “wrap-up” session, 28 May 2002
Present: 5 students, Robin Hirsch (Chair), John Washbrook, Graham Roberts, Jill Saunders.
Main points raised:
1. Coursework
The view was put forward that coursework was not properly weighted in the overall assessment for courses. In response, RDH explained that the departmental practice was generally set coursework with a certain amount of credit attached, but with the main aim of helping students acquire knowledge, practice skills and prepare them overall for the assessment of a course. There was possibly a danger that if coursework was weighted too heavily it might lead to other problems such as plagiarism.
Several of those present felt that it would have been beneficial to have had the opportunity to present their projects. There was no strong view that this should be part of the assessment process. It was pointed out that some types of project might lend themselves better than others to being demonstrated (eg with more visual impact). So this might lead to some students being disadvantaged. It was felt that the Department should not try to organise project demonstration days (as for the group projects), but that perhaps the process could involve the second markers. It was AGREED to take this further.The view was put forward that coursework was not properly weighted in the overall assessment for courses. In response, RDH explained that the departmental practice was generally set coursework with a certain amount of credit attached, but with the main aim of helping students acquire knowledge, practice skills and prepare them overall for the assessment of a course. There was possibly a danger that if coursework was weighted too heavily it might lead to other problems such as plagiarism.
2. Individual projects
Jill Saunders
29 May 2002
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