Assessing Student Learning in Higher Education - Practical Assessment

Our review of Assessing Student Learning in Higher Education finds it a practical, research-informed handbook for lecturers who want to rethink how assessment shapes student learning. The book's single biggest reason to buy is its balanced mix of background research and ready-to-use guidance that links assessment choices to student behaviour and identity. Written for teaching staff, course designers and academic developers, this review highlights how the text translates theory into activities and examples that can be applied across disciplines.

Key Features

• Research-based context: The book summarizes background research that helps lecturers understand why different assessment approaches influence what students regard as important.
• Coverage of common methods: Conventional assessment formats such as essays and projects are examined with practical implications for classroom use and grading.
• Alternative approaches: The text explores self-assessment and peer-assessment, offering suggestions for integrating these methods into existing courses.
• Practical guidance: Chapters include guidelines, activities and examples of practice that make it easier to trial new assessment forms in a real course.
• Contextual topics: The role of external examiners and the use of IT in assessment are discussed to help readers consider institutional and technological factors.

Who It's For

This book is aimed primarily at higher education lecturers, programme leaders and academic staff who want a concise, research-informed refresher on assessment design and implementation. It suits those seeking practical examples and activities to develop assessment tasks that better align with learning aims and student engagement.

Those looking for a textbook on psychometrics or detailed statistical methods should look elsewhere, since the emphasis here is on qualitative guidance, practical activities and policy-related issues rather than technical measurement models.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Clear link between research and practice makes it straightforward to adapt ideas for real courses.
• Good range of assessment formats, including both essays and alternative approaches, helps broaden options for teaching staff.
• Includes pragmatic tools such as guidelines, activities and examples that can be used immediately.

Cons

• Not a technical manual on statistical assessment or psychometrics, so readers needing deep measurement detail may find it limited.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Assessing Student Learning in Higher Education is a solid, practical resource for academics who want to align assessment with learning goals and student behaviour. Its value lies in actionable guidance and illustrative examples rather than technical measurement detail, making it good value for lecturers and course teams seeking an accessible, research-backed handbook.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this book cover peer-assessment?
Yes, it discusses self- and peer-assessment and offers suggestions for introducing these approaches into courses.

Is the book suitable for new lecturers?
Yes, new lecturers will find the guidelines, activities and examples particularly helpful for designing assessment tasks.

Does it include technical assessment statistics?
No, the emphasis is on practical guidance and research context rather than detailed psychometric or statistical methods.