Credit System All work undertaken by learners is marked using a credit rating system. This means that learners must meet the specified criteria of assessment to achieve the unit credits. Work undertaken on the Access course is marked at either Level 2 or Level 3, with level 3 being the required standard for most pieces of work. The table below illustrates the approximate equivalents between the credit framework and other forms of measuring achievement. Level 3 Level 2
A Level GCSE A* - C
GNVQ Advanced GNVQ Intermediate
NVQ 3 NVQ 2
The credit levels are defined on the UCAS website as follows: Level Two The acquisition of a broader range of competences, knowledge and understanding which demonstrates the extension of previous abilities in less predictable and structured contexts and prepares the learner to progress to further achievements. Level Three The acquisition of a more complex range of competences, knowledge and understanding in contexts which develop autonomous, analytical and critical abilities that prepare the learner to progress to further independent achievements. Unit grading system All level 3 assignments (Option subjects & Study Skills) will also be graded at either pass, merit or distinction level if your assignments are handed in by the designated submission date and all assignment criteria are fully completed as assigned to that assignment. Each assignment grade will lead to an overall unit grade of pass, merit or distinction. (Please note if an assignment does not meet all criteria in the first submission, after feedback is given the assignment may be improved upon and resubmitted, but a merit / distinction grade may only be given if submitted with the deadline, which should be of no longer than one week. Assessment Assessment is on a continual basis. You will be assessed in a variety of ways; written assignments, tests, computer based assignments, debates, oral presentations, group presentations and by other methods. All assignments will be set using an assignment task sheet that contains information relevant to the criteria to be met and how you can attain a merit or a distinction. It also gives the submission dates. Upon completion of the work and after marking it will offer feedback from subject lecturers e.g. comments and/or advice for future work/amendments. If at first you do not achieve all assignment criteria, for the final submission, lecturers will give support you to improve and develop your work. For many learners their level of work develops over time.
6