Developing generalisable measures of knowledge and skill outcomes in higher education

Abstract

We know much about higher education, but very little about assessing student knowledge and skill in ways which are generalisable beyond specific subjects or courses. This paper argues for greater progress in this rapidly developing area of higher education. It suggests approaches for enhancing the assessment of student knowledge and skill, and considers how these might underpin a model of assessment standards. Preliminary observations are made in conclusion about what might be required to bring such changes into practice. The analysis is by no means intended to be exhaustive, but rather to provide a discursive snapshot of a few main trends and possible developments.