Last updated 11 April 2012
| This handbook is for modules starting before the end of July 2012 and will be revised for modules or programmes starting from 1 August 2012. |
This Assessment Handbook is for you to use during your OU studies. It outlines the University’s policy relating to the different elements of assessment you may have to complete for your module or programme and explains the outcomes and/or module result you will receive at the end of each module. You'll find our formal Code of practice for student assessment (along with our other student regulations and formal policies) on our website at www.open.ac.uk/essential-documents or in the Conditions of registration sent to you when you registered.
This Handbook tells you the general rules and regulations for completing and submitting your work and explains the result grades we use, while module or programme-specific information such as your Module Guide, Study Calendar and Assignment Booklet will tell you about the individual elements of assessment in your module.
Most modules have assessment throughout the module rather than just at the end. You should check your Module Guide, Study Calendar and Assignment Booklet for details. Remember that assessment during the module often aims at consolidating what you have learned, improving your understanding of the subject and your skills as a student.
Sections 1 to 4 of this handbook address assessment in relation to individual modules while Section 5 addresses assessment across and within some of our professional programmes of study (for example, the Pre-Registration Nursing programme, the Social Work degree and foundation degrees). All students should read sections 1 to 4, but if you are studying as part of one of these professional programmes, you should also read Section 5.
You may also find it helpful to look at our assessment website www.open.ac.uk/assessment where you'll find more information about assessment, for example, a glossary of some of the phrases and terms used in assessment, a selection of forms and information sheets and even a short movie about a typical OU examination. The site also includes assessment-related questions and answers as well as some links to other useful websites.
