Performance descri ptors Student feedback asked for better clarity of assessment criteria. The new marking scheme includes performance descriptors so you can better understand the level at which you are working and where you need to improve to raise your marks. Examples of the new performance descriptors Percentage Performance Descriptor Example grade (%) 90-100%
60-69%
50-59%
Exceptional level of analysis, showing deep critical engagement with a comprehensive range of contextual material. Demonstration of independent thought resulting in highly original or creative responses to the assignment. Answers most if not all detailed aspects of the question. Content mainly relevant and accurate. Good knowledge and understanding of relevant theory and concepts and application of theoretical models. Evidence of a developing appreciation of contextual issues. Identifies main issues and relevant theory. Coverage of most of assignment issues. Competent application of relevant theory and states obvious links to practice.
The performance descriptors also give you immediate feedback on your assessment with further detailed and personal feedback to follow. The new performance descriptors for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes will be published at our dedicated webpages: www.wlv.ac.uk/newmarkingscheme
Why are we making these changes? Students asked us to: • Improve the clarity of assessment criteria. The new performance descriptors will allow you to better understand what level of your own work makes the grade. • Improve feedback and marking procedures. By using a percentage grading scheme, your marker can provide you with refined assessment of your performance within each percentage band. • Make the transcript more meaningful. Marking in percentages means that you and employers will be able to better understand your assessment performance. • Make it simpler to understand degree classification. Marking in percentages will make it easier for you to understand where you are and how to improve your classification performance. Recognising excellence. We want to ensure every student receives a fair assessment of the quality of their assignments. By using a percentage grading scheme we are not only able to refine assessment we can also better reflect and recognise excellent achievement across the full marking scale.
A summary of the changes • From September 2013 all marking will be conducted in percentages – aligned with the new performance descriptors. • For returning students, any existing (pre-September 2013) awarded grades are “in the bank” and unaffected by these changes (where a module was registered before Sept 2013 and still incomplete, it will still be graded using the old scheme). • Your transcript will show the grades you were awarded – in the format they were awarded. • The algorithm for Honours Degree classification will remain the same; grades will be converted by rule to fairly establish the classification – as is the case now.
Your guide to the new University marking scheme.
• A detailed communication campaign will keep students and staff informed about the impact of the changes. • There will be a thorough evaluation of the impact of the changes. • Students on Foundation Degree and HNC/D programmes are able to achieve awards “with merit” and “with distinction” – the criteria for each is available at our webpages and within the relevant academic regulations. For more information and details as they are published visit our dedicated webpages at: www.wlv.ac.uk/newmarkingscheme
www.wlv.ac.uk/newmarkingscheme