University of Malta assessment policy : amended draft August 2023

Abstract

This document outlines principles, procedures, and good practice for the design and management of student assessment at programme and study-unit level at the University of Malta (UM). This Assessment Policy document is accompanied by a resource toolkit that provides guidance on effective implementation and practice. All programmes at the UM are covered by this policy. Some programmes (e.g., those of a professional nature or with a large practical component) may have additional or different requirements that necessitate deviation from the procedures and practices outlined in this policy. Any such variations from this policy must be approved by the Senate. In the event of any inconsistency between any provision of this Assessment Policy document and the accompanying Assessment Policy Resource Toolkit, the provisions of this Policy take precedence. This policy codifies and validates the student-centred cultures of assessment that have developed over the years within individual departments and faculties, institutes, centres, and schools (FICS) at the UM. It reflects the ‘Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area (ESG, 2015)’ and the ‘Internal Quality Assurance Standards’, as established by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA). Assessment is identified as one of the main tools to improve both learning and teaching in tertiary education, contributing to students’ academic success as well as to helping educators better understand the progress of their learners as well as supporting students’ learning. Assessment also enables the UM to issue authenticated credentials (certificates, diplomas, degrees) which serve both the student and society at large. Assessment needs to indicate to the student, UM, and wider society both the ability of learners and variability among students. This policy emphasises that all members of the learning community within the UM are expected to uphold academic integrity and any other provisions as outlined in the University Assessment Regulations (2009). Recognising the prominent position of assessment in learning and teaching, UM is committed to its continued pursuit of quality and excellence through the ongoing development, implementation and periodic monitoring of this assessment policy. Periodic and Annual Programme Reviews (PPRs and APRs) will provide the backdrop for ongoing reflections and conversations on assessment processes.