Approach and Benefits

The LOUISA project was the fourth phase of the VLE Excellence Programme which aimed to enhance the staff and student experience when using the online teaching environment and associated learning technology tools.

Information on the first three phases can be located via the below links:  

 

Why is the Learn Foundations approach to assessment and feedback important?

Over 5000 courses are delivered annually on the virtual learning environment (VLE) with over 45, 000 students enrolled across these courses. Many students actively study across multiple programmes or even Schools and have feedback that the inconsistency they experience has a profound impact on their overall experience at the University and their ability to confidently submit assessments and receive feedback on time.

 

As part of analysis undertaken by the LOUISA project, the three most comment assessment types used across the University were identified as being:

 

  • Essay Submission: Any paper-based submission including lab reports;  
  • Media Submission: Any multimedia submission;  

  • Group Submission: Any submission where students work as a collective group.

     

Engagement with Schools identified that the approach to assessment and feedback whilst using learning technology varies significantly across the University, dependant on local needs and requirements. Impacts to the student experience as a result of these local variations were identified via the UX research.

 

To support with this, the LOUISA project team worked with colleagues from across the University to create workflows for the common assessment types identified, to be adopted by Schools, resulting in a consistent experience for both staff and students.   

What is the Learn Foundations approach to assessment and feedback approach?

The LOUISA approach provides clear workflows to delivering assessment and feedback digitally across the University of Edinburgh, removing inconsistencies experienced by students and reflected in NSS and PTES feedback year on year.

 

We encourage all staff using Learn as part of their course delivery to use this approach and good practice guidance when preparing their course to ensure that students get the best possible learning experience. Information on both the workflows and good practice guidance can be found on the assessment section of the Learn Service SharePoint.

What are the benefits of this approach?

  • Students experience will be enhanced by the removal of inconsistent or complex workflows across and within Schools.  
  • Staff will be supported via central support, guidance, good practice and training for using the LOUISA approach.

How can I find out more information to improve the assessment and feedback journey on my course?

The Learn Service SharePoint has the most up to date information, good practice and resources for your digital assessment and feedback journey.

 

If you are interested in attending training related to assessment and feedback when using learning technology, you can visit the Learning Technology Training Community on People and Money.

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