During my lit review and sector research, I discovered that the debate around modern assessment methods is very topical at the moment, with varying global news outlets discussing this in the wake of the emergence of AI. I have taken particular interest in an article published by bbc.co.uk recently, that investigates the alarming increase of international students attending UK universities with minimal english language skills. Whilst this is slightly off topic for my research, it has indeed become a very formative text where it discusses how international students pass degrees despite language issues, stating “courses are often assessed through assignments, rather than exams. Some students use essay mills and pay for others to write their work or, increasingly, use artificial intelligence (AI).” (BBC.CO.UK, 2024)
The article (seen below) has lead to further research and has encouraged me to investigate overall assessment methods further. The main discussion point within the article is the rise of international student’s attending UK universities without the skillset required. According to the BBC, “some institutions are overlooking language skills to receive high fees from overseas students.” It could be argued that as universities relax international recruitment rules in order to meet funding targets, integrity of some courses could be at risk. Particularly if assessment methods remain “beatable. ”
We then have several factors at play here when it comes to assessment. Creating assessment methods that are inclusive to diverse cohorts. Integrity of the education. Funding and budgets. Assessment must be robust to ensure our institutions remain quality place of higher education. And yet assessment must also combat technology and the changing dynamic of the classroom…..Do art schools have the answer? To be continued…..
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0mzdejg1d3o
References
Paul kenyon, www.bbc.co.uk , 3 December 2024