Criteria 3: Extensions and Multiple Submissions

This element refers to various aspects that influence when and how assessment tasks are administered and completed. This encompasses the scheduling, duration, and pacing of assessments. This element also refers to where, when, and how students are supported (‘scaffolded’) to prepare for their assessment and opportunities for formative feedback. Inclusive approaches to assessment timing accommodate diverse student needs and minimise stress during intense assessment periods


UDL Principles

  • Engagement: Flexible timing helps maintain student motivation and reduces anxiety.
  • Representation: Adequate preparation time ensures all students can access and process the information.
  • Action & Expression: Sufficient duration and flexibility allow all students to demonstrate their knowledge effectively.

  • This example shows how an assessment can be revised to introduce provisions for extensions and multiple submission windows, promoting fairness and flexibility for all students. By allowing extensions for unforeseen circumstances and offering multiple submission windows, students can manage their time and personal commitments more effectively. These changes help reduce stress, improve well-being, and ensure that all students have a fair opportunity to succeed while producing higher-quality work.

    Considerations

    Are there provisions for extensions and multiple submission windows built into the assessment design

    Additional Considerations:

    How do these provisions ensure fairness and flexibility for all students? Do they consider unforeseen circumstances and individual student needs?

    Original Assessment Task: Structural Integrity Analysis

    Task Details:

    • Description: Students are required to conduct a structural integrity analysis of an existing building, including calculations, diagrams, and a written report detailing their findings and recommendations.
    • Timing: Announced at the beginning of Week 1, due by Week 6.
    • Percentage: 35%

    Issues:

    1. No Provisions for Extensions: The assignment has a strict deadline with no options for extensions, causing stress for students facing unforeseen circumstances.
    2. Single Submission Window: Only one submission window is provided, leaving no flexibility for students who may need additional time due to personal or academic challenges.
    3. Inflexibility for Diverse Needs: The lack of flexibility does not accommodate diverse student needs, potentially disadvantaging those with varying personal and academic commitments.

    Revised Assessment Task: Design Proposal and Presentation

    Assignment Name: Structural Integrity Analysis

    Task Details:

    • Description: Students are required to conduct a structural integrity analysis of an existing building, including calculations, diagrams, and a written report detailing their findings and recommendations.
    • Advance Notice: Assignment details are provided at the end of the previous semester, with reiterated instructions in the first class of the current semester.
    • Timing: Announced at the end of the previous semester, due by Week 8.
    • Percentage: 35%

    Changes Implemented:

    1. Provisions for Extensions: According to the University of Melbourne’s Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326), students can apply for extensions if they experience unforeseen circumstances. Clear guidelines are provided for requesting extensions, including acceptable reasons (e.g., health issues, family emergencies) and required documentation (e.g., medical certificates).
    2. Multiple Submission Windows: Multiple submission windows are introduced (e.g., Week 6, Week 8, and Week 10) to provide flexibility for students who may need extra time. Students can choose the submission window that best fits their schedule and needs.
    3. Clear Communication of Policies:

    Extension policies and multiple submission windows are communicated in the course syllabus, on the LMS, and reiterated in class, ensuring all students are aware of their options.

    Improvements:

    1. Increased Flexibility and Fairness: The provisions for extensions and multiple submission windows accommodate diverse student needs and circumstances, promoting fairness and reducing stress.
    2. Improved Student Well-being: The flexibility helps alleviate pressure, allowing students to manage their time better and submit high-quality work without compromising their well-being.
    3. Enhanced Learning Outcomes: By providing additional time and flexibility, students can engage more deeply with the task, leading to improved learning outcomes and a better understanding of structural integrity concepts