Textbook in PDF format

This book is about assessment in university degree programmes in physics, although much of the content would be of interest to assessors in other disciplines. It is very much a practical book, providing advice for academics involved in the process of assessment. Although there are some references to educational research, this is a book written from the perspective of experience and observation.
There are three main purposes to the book. First, it serves as a practical guide for new members of staff who are inexperienced in teaching and assessment. Second, it critiques existing forms of assessment, so that more experienced examiners and programme leaders are encouraged to think more deeply about the nature of their assessments. Finally, it addresses broader issues within the assessment system which have consequences for senior administrators, quality assurance experts and those interested in university standards.
Introduction and the purposes of assessment
Methods of assessment
What are we assessing?
Timed examinations
Experimental and other skills
Summaries and suggestions