Each course has its own assessment criteria appropriate to the specified Learning Objects of the course as detailed in the on-line course specification. All courses are assessed using the University Common Marking Scheme. Typical modes of assessment through the programme are detailed below:
Pre-Honours: (first and second year)
Lecture based physics and mathematics courses are assessed by end of course written unseen examinations with typical weight of 80% being augmented by weekly hand-in assignments typically weighted at 20%. These are marked throughout the semester and returned with feedback comments typically within 10 days of submission. All semester 1 pre-honours lecture based courses offered examination feedback workshops as the start of semester 2 where student can view their marked scripts and receive personal feedback from the course staff. Class performance and common error feedback on semester 2 examinations are supplied via the School intranet.
Practical and computing classes are assigned by continuous assessment either via written submitted reports, laboratory notebooks or, for computing classes, specified checkpoints assessed by during the assigned workshop classes. All submitted reports and notebooks are returned with written feedback, and students receive verbal feedback and advice on computer checkpoints from the assessors.
Honours:
Lecture based physics and mathematics courses are mainly assessed by either end of course, or end of year written unseen examinations. Core courses at Junior Honours are augmented by periodic hand-ins with a typical weight of 10% which are marked throughout the course are returned as with written feedback. The reduction in frequency and weight of these hand-ins compared to pre-honours encouraged students to take responsibility for their own learning and time management. In courses with no course work students are encouraged to attempt course questions in advance and seek feedback on heir work at the course workshops/tutorials. All students have access to their marked examination scripts via the School Teaching Office.
Computing courses at Junior Honours are assessed as at pre-honours. Project work as Team and Group exercises in Research Methods, Team Review and Group Project as assessed by a written group report, group presentation and peer moderation.
The main MPhys project in the Integrated Masters year is assessed via laboratory performance, written report, oral presentation and public communications exercise chosen by the student; for example web presentation based at a general audience; the latter two being assessed as a separate course. During the MPhys Project and associated presentation course the student is supervised by academic or research staff who supply feedback regarding on-courses performance and development. Further written feedback is also supplied on all the assessed aspects of these courses.
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