1. Designing Exciting Assignments: Experiences on the use of video-based assessments in higher education by
Deen Najubudeen
Programme Manager / Lecturer Higher Education Strode College, Somerset (in partnership with Plymouth University)

2. Backdrop to the project
Wanted a change from the traditional assessment methods such as essays and reports
Modern, accessible, video-based technology was identified as a possible alternative
Pilot-testing started on the FdSc Managing in the Public Sector Services course in
Module chosen was Level 5 Media & Public Awareness

3. What it involved
Setting an assignment that required the submission of a ‘video-diary’ based on the respective learning outcomes
Groupwork (three or four members)
10-minute video clip
Assessment Question
Create a video diary in which you critically reflect on your understanding of the role played by the media in shaping your own and others’ opinions and outlooks

4. Students’ views Satisfaction surveys Face-to-face interviews 2012-13
 Did you enjoy creating the ‘video diary’ as part of your assessment?
 100%
Yes
90% Yes
Would you want a similar method of assessment for another module?
80%

5. Tutors’ standpoints
A marked change on the students’ levels of enthusiasm
Enabled students to acquire additional ICT skills
Students were able to explore their creative side
Tested students’ team-work and interaction skills
This method could of assessment could reduce plagiarism
Saves time on marking

6. Styles of ‘video diaries’
Re-enactment of a case with analysis
Documentary
Instructional video
Newsflash
Investigation-type
Interview
Mini-movie

7. Hardware / software needed
Video Camera or a decent Smartphone
Tripod
Computer
Microsoft Movie Maker for Windows
iMovie for Mac

8. Screenshot of software

9. Video based assessments in a variety of contexts / subject areas
Law
Accounting
Sports
Business
Health & Social Care
Computing
Criminology

10. Issues that could arise
Conflicts during groupwork
Managing scale of production
Digital data corruption
Non-compatible video formats
_____________________________________
Grading individual work vs group work
Sensitivity of content

11. Questions & Answers