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Assessment

The CBLT Modules are normally assessed by the completion of a piece of work equivalent to 4000 words. The content of the work will normally be negotiated with the Module Tutor. This will draw on the content and themes of the Module but is often related to a practical outcome in the workplace. Work is normally submitted in html format with the exception of the Research Methods Module where a different electronic format is required. For html submissions we require all files and resources to be made available so that your work can be placed on our cbltwork website. Details on how to submit work is avaliable.

More details about the Programme and some of the Regulations are available from the MSc CBLT Student Handbook.Choose format:
MSc CBLT Student Handbook in Flash format or
MSc CBLT Student Handbook in
pdf format

Assessment Criteria

It is important to consult the full details of assignment rules and regulations which are provided in the Advanced Programmes Student Handbook (Flash format) Advanced Programmes Student Handbook (pdf format). The criteria below are repeated for clarity. In all assignments the weighting of these criteria will depend on the exact problem(s) being addressed.

Other regulations are provided in the School of Education Student Handbook available from the School Manager. Assignments are normally expected to be 4000 words or equivalent. Over long submissions will be penalised. Work which is not of sufficeint length may also be penalised. Assignments or dissertations which do not correctly identify direct or near direct quotations, or adhere to the Academic Integrity Regulations (http://www.calendar.soton.ac.uk/sectionIV/academic-integrity-regs.html) will be graded R or F

Grade Descriptors

Assessment Criteria

A

B

C

Analysis of Literature & Research

Critical application of a wide range of relevant sources, well understood & fully appreciated.

High level of understanding of main sources, well summarised & used in a relevant way.

Sound understanding of the literature & a range of source material consulted.

Synthesis & Utilisation of Evidence

Original perspective on the issues. Sets sources & view-points in context & systematically evaluates contributions. Methodological understanding & theoretical appreciation.

High level of appreciation of main issues. Ability to make appropriate critical points. Methodological awareness. Good comprehensive commentary on evidence & materials used.

Sound understanding of main issues. Methods of data collection described. Competent commentary on evidence & materials used.

Integration of Theory & Practice

Locates suitable concepts & makes comprehensive, critical assessment of issues involved. Evaluates the relevant theories, ability to develop critiques of them. Coherently integrates them with practice.

Good critical commentary linking theory & practice.

Conclusions well developed & based on relevant argument & evidence.

Good use & understanding of relevant theoretical models.

Critical commentary linking theory & practice.

Generally sound conclusions based on appropriate argument & evidence.

Competent use & understanding of theoretical models.

Structure

A clear, relevant & developed thesis statement. Consistent use of accurate constructions. Very good selection, synthesis & summary writing skills. Very well structured with clarity & cohesion. Sustained & coherently argued.

A clear & relevant thesis statement. Accurate constructions. Good selection, synthesis & summary writing skills. Well structured with clarity & cohesion. Sustained & coherently argued.

A clear thesis statement. Use of accurate constructions.

Generally sound selection, synthesis & summary writing skills. Structured with clarity & cohesion. Ability to handle argument coherently.

Presentation

Excellent presentation & appropriate length. Accurate referencing.

High level of presentation. Accurate referencing.

Competent presentation & referencing.

 

Grade Descriptors

A

Distinction will be awarded when all relevant criteria achieved at grade A

B

Good pass will be awarded when almost all relevant criteria achieved at grade B or above

C

Pass at Masters level will be awarded when most relevant criteria achieved at grade C or above

R

Resubmission will be awarded when failure to meet criteria for grades A-C, but resubmission allowed

F

Fail will be awarded when a resubmitted assignment fails to meet the criteria grades or when there has been no submission within the allotted time (see re-submission in Masters', Diploma and Certificate Handbook)

We reserve the right to penalise gross over or under wordage in assignments or dissertations. For example, a dissertation submitted in excess of 16,000 words would not normally be awarded the highest grade.

Guidelines

If you can answer 'YES' to the following questions your assignment will normally contain the necessary elements to gain a PASS.

Is the ability to acquire knowledge demonstrated?

Is there evidence of a wide evidence base?
Are alternative views identified?
Is it accurately and well referenced?
Is the content accurate and relevant?

Is the ability to comprehend information demonstrated?

Is there evidence of the interpretation of the knowledge gained?
Is there enough expression in own words rather than just verbatim quotes?
Are any implications identified clearly?

Is the ability to analyse information demonstrated?

Are the objectives and components of the study clearly identified
Are a variety of views compared and contrasted?

Is the ability to synthesise information demonstrated?

Are constructive conclusions drawn and do they relate to the argument you present?
Are own views reasoned and argued?

Is the ability to apply theory to practice demonstrated?

Are theories and clearly applied to practice?
Is it clear that it is understood why they are appropriate?
Are sound reasons given?

Is the ability to evaluate information demonstrated?

Are strength and weaknesses in arguments identified and related to conclusions?

Have you submitted and presented your work as required?

Have you paid careful attention to the format?
Have you ensured that your work is of an appropriate length?
Have you checked that all hyperlinks function correctly?
Have you checked that images are named / included / referenced correctly?

Advice:

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