The assessments you will complete during your studies will vary from module to module. A wide range of assessment types are used across the University to assess different skills and competencies, and to encourage the development of different knowledge and experiences. Assessment may be summative, which means that the grade awarded contributes to the grade you receive for the module, or formative-only, which means that you will receive feedback to help you develop and improve but not a grade that contributes to a final module mark. Below you will find some short definitions of commonly used assessment types across the University. If you are unsure about any assessment you are asked to complete, please ask your module or programme leader to help you better understand what is expected of you.
Education enhancementDefining assessment types
Written exams or class tests
These are formal tests designed to assess your understanding of a subject, which can be taken in-person or online. They can vary in format, such as multiple-choice, short answers, or essays. Exams and class tests may be closed-book (you cannot use resources) or open-book (you can use materials), and they can be invigilated (supervised to ensure academic integrity).
Written assignments
Written tasks such as essays, reports, or case studies that require you to research, analyse, and present information or arguments. These assignments test your ability to structure ideas logically, use evidence, and express yourself clearly in writing. They may focus on critical thinking, analysis, or practical application of theories.
Oral presentations
Assessments where you deliver a prepared speech or talk to an audience, either individually or as part of a group. They are designed to evaluate your ability to communicate ideas effectively, engage with your audience, and use presentation tools like slides or visuals.
Multimedia presentations
Creative assessments that allow you to use different media, such as posters, videos, podcasts, photography, or digital designs, to communicate ideas. These tasks focus on how well you can combine visuals, sound, and text to deliver a message or showcase your understanding in an innovative way.
Quizzes
Often short, focused assessments featuring multiple-choice, true/false, and/or short-answer questions. Quizzes are typically used to quickly evaluate your knowledge or recall of key concepts and can be conducted online or in class, with or without a time limit.
Group working activities and tasks
Collaborative assessments where you work with your peers to solve problems, complete a project, or present findings. These activities test teamwork, communication, and the ability to contribute effectively to a shared goal. They may involve grading and feedback which relates to both the group’s output and your individual contributions.
Peer and self-assessments
In peer assessments, you review and provide feedback on your classmates’ work, while in self-assessments, you evaluate your own performance. These tasks help develop critical reflection, self-awareness, and constructive feedback skills.
Reflective accounts/diaries
These are personal writing assignments where you reflect on, consider, and analyse your learning experiences, progress, or challenges. Reflective tasks encourage you to think critically about what you’ve learned and how it applies to future practice or personal growth.
Blogs
Online posts where you present ideas, research, or reflections, often is a less formal or conversational style. Blogs are often interactive, allowing readers to comment or engage with your content. They can focus on sharing knowledge or documenting your learning journey.
Wikis
Collaborative online platforms where you and others create, edit, and share information on a specific topic. Wikis test your ability to research, write concisely, and collaborate effectively to build a shared resource.
Tutorials
Interactive learning sessions, often in small groups, led by a tutor or mentor. Tutorials may include assessed discussions, problem-solving activities, or be a forum for providing feedback on your work. They are designed to deepen your understanding of a subject.
Practical or lab-based assessments
Hands-on assessed tasks conducted in a lab or practical setting, such as experiments, simulations, or technical exercises. These assessments evaluate your ability to apply theoretical knowledge, follow procedures, and demonstrate practical skills.