This task concentrates on Outcomes 1 and 2.

In this task, you will be expected to submit a 1,000 word written assignment, the focus of which is a critique of one of the AT1 papers listed in the Reading List and on iLearn.

It should include:

• A brief introduction to the text and author under analysis and/or a summary of the author’s main points;
• An analysis of the text with respect to the validity of the author’s argument and success in achieving their purpose;
• Your critical response to the text on whether you agree or disagree with the point of view taken, with appropriate scholarly citations to support your views;
• A conclusion in relation to the overall evaluation of the text.

For resources on academic writing, including tips for an article critique, see: http://staff.mq.edu.au/teaching/workshops_programs/postgrad_program/resources/

This task concentrates on Outcomes 2,3,4,5 & 6.

In this task, you have the choice of developing either a:

1. Assessment Portfolio (for an existing unit or teaching context) or a
2. Annotated Bibliography

Assessment Task 2A (AT2): Assessment Portfolio

In this task, you will construct an assessment portfolio for a unit you currently teach or intend to teach. The aim of such a portfolio is to focus on the unit assessment from its conception through to results. It can perform the functions of:

• an aid to memory - what worked and what didn’t?
• investigating student learning - are they learning what I hope for them to learn?
• recording changes to the assessment over time - why the changes were made and how effective they were in achieving the desired outcomes; and
• providing documentation for peer feedback and formal review or promotion.

Your Assessment Portfolio may contain:

• an assessment schedule
• the learning outcomes and graduate capabilities for the course
• details of the criteria which will be used in assessing students' work
• marking rubrics
• a table showing the relationship between the assessment tasks and the course learning outcomes and graduate attributes
• de-identified examples of student work
• student feedback
• and, most importantly, a critical reflection on and justification (with links to scholarly literature) for your approach to assessment.

Resources to assist you are available on iLearn.

OR

Assessment Task 2B (AT2): Annotated Bibliography

In this task, you will construct an annotated bibliography of at least 10 references to scholarly literature in a specific area of curriculum of assessment. Your list of sources should include: at least one book; at least two academic journal articles; no more than two websites.  The aim of an annotated bibliography is to build your research capacity in a particular area. It can perform the functions of:

• reviewing the literature of a particular subject;
• evaluating the strengths, weaknesses and usefulness of sources;
• exemplifying the scope of sources available—such as journals, books and websites;
• exploring and organising sources for further research.

Resources to assist you are available on iLearn.

This task focuses upon Outcomes 2, 3, 4, 5, & 6.

In this task, you have the choice of exploring either a:

1. curriculum model that you are particularly interested in; or a
2. type or process of assessment that you wish to critique and/or develop.

This can be on the same topic as AT2.

An investigation of a Curriculum Model

If this is your assignment choice, you are required to submit a 2500 word written analysis of your curriculum area of choice (e.g. work integrated learning; graduate capabilities; research-led curriculum). The analysis should cover the key characteristics and pivotal issues related to developing the curriculum in the chosen area. You may wish to situate your analysis within your own teaching/curriculum context, or provide a more general evaluation of issues and approaches.

OR

An investigation of an Assessment Practice

If this is your assignment choice, you are required to submit a 2500 word written analysis of your assessment practice of choice (e.g. assessing large classes; assessing creative works; online assessment). The analysis should cover the key characteristics and pivotal issues related to the assessment practice under consideration. You may wish to situate the analysis within your own teaching/curriculum context, or provide a more general evaluation of issues and approaches.

This assessment is concerned with all unit learning outcomes.

Your postings to the online discussions should reflect an understanding of your own context and the course material. You should bring in related thoughts and material, readings or questions that occur to you throughout the discussion.

You are required to complete the core readings for each module, reflect upon the readings and to then share your reflections on the readings with course colleagues through online postings and (for internal students) during the on-campus sessions.

Your postings should advance the group's negotiation of ideas and meanings about the material. Some ways you can further discussions include:

• expressing ideas or observations - where possible support them by more than personal opinion or anecdotal evidence;
• making a connection between the current discussion and previous discussion, personal experience or readings;
• commenting on or expanding another student’s statement;
• posting a substantive question aimed at furthering the group’s understanding.

Please keep your posts brief! One or two paragraphs is sufficient. If citing course readings, in text references are sufficient. For additional references (if applicable), please provide a bibliographic reference at the end of your post.

The content of your Learning Activities may contribute to your AT2 and AT3.

A mark for the discussions will be awarded on the basis of:

1. Your participation in the discussions (40%)
2. The essence of your contributions (60%)

In assessing your contributions the following categories will be used:

• Level 1 - Postings providing a single point of view;
• Level 2 - Postings which make reference to other contexts or course material;

Level 3 - Postings which offer a critical reflection on theoretical perspectives and/or practical experiences.