This course is based on the idea that the participants are the decision makers in the course, who govern their learning according to their own needs. The assessment format takes it into account.The overall principle is that of performance-based assessment: you have to demonstrate certain abilities to gain points, but you are free to choose your assessment in a mix-and-match fashion.
The overall assessment consists of three parts, foundations, challenges and project, with each part consisting of several assessments.
Foundations (5 tests á 10 points, max. 50 points)
The foundations tests the participants understanding of the topics and their ability to apply them in business settings. This understanding is assessed in the form of written tests, requiring the participants to apply their knowledge to case studies and real-world examples. The participants are expected to be familiar with the key terms as well as the constructs and topics covered in the course. Any one of the tests can be taken in any of the units. Participants who do not get full points are allowed to improve their tests in later units. The participants can choose which tests and hence which topics they wish to focus on.
Challenges (5 challenges á 10 points, max. 50 points)
In the challenges, the participants are presented with a problem related to the concepts and languages they learn in the course. The challenges require an in-depth understanding of the languages and their interplay as well as conceptual abilities and knowledge of relevant research topics. Each challenge is related to a particular topic and this available in the related unit and cannot be retaken or take another time. The participants can decide freely, which challenges they wish to take.
Project (max. 50 points)
The project is an applied activity encompassing all topics covered in the course, though the participants can chose their focus in the project. The pariticipants are required to use their new knowledge and skill to solve a real-world problem, making their own decisions in the process. The projects require the participant to not only apply skills that were covered in the autonomous learning and the units, but to look for further knowledge as necessary to fulfil the project task.
Grades
The grading system is closely aligned to the assessment methods. The scale is non-linear, rather representing different levels of achievement:
- under 50 points 5 (fail)
- under 60 points 4
- under 75 points 3
- under 90 points 2
- 90 points or more 1