Student Learning Assessment and Grading

To assess academic progress accurately and fairly, BBSI employs a system of continuous assessment that has been developed as an alternative to a formal examination system.  Assignments in different formats are set regularly to assess the achievement of learning outcomes.  These assignments may be in the form of written essays, reports, or case studies; progress tests; research and analysis projects; preparation and delivery of presentations; business simulations and other group work; or portfolio work.

 

To ensure grading is consistent and fair, careful guidelines are agreed by academic staff, and internal verification is standard procedure to meet rigorous quality-management requirements.  All work is assessed on the basis of originality and the quality of its presentation, content and language.  BBSI submits all students’ written work to an academic plagiarism detector (Turnitin), to ensure that all work is original.  Plagiarism is not tolerated, and will result in failure.  The following are also taken into account: general ability and performance, assimilation, participation and motivation, punctuality and attendance, and overall academic progress.  Grading criteria are shown in the table below.

GRADING	GRADE RESULTS	SKILLS	ATTENDANCE	FOUNDATION TARGETS
DISTINCTION	> 80%	high level of communication & fluency of expression	> 90%	foundation grade sought by top 10 universities
CREDIT	65-79%	ability to apply professional practice skills	> 90%	foundation grade sought by most traditional universities
PASS	50-64%	ability to communicate clearly in the relevant discipline at a professional level	> 80%	minimum foundation sought generally by universities
FAIL OR REFERRAL	< 49%	lack of coherence in work, and inability to sustain an argument level	< 70%

Each trainee´s performance is monitored closely by means of continuous assessment. Where required by sponsors, detailed training reports are submitted on a regular basis, which cover the following:

IELTS levels and progress in all areas of study
attitude to studies, ie motivation, effort and participation
quality and submission of assignments
attendance and punctuality
major strengths and weaknesses, and any remedial action required
any known welfare or social problems
study skills demonstrated

Sponsored Trainees. Special reports are submitted in the case of sponsored trainees whose conduct, effort, motivation or aptitude raise doubts as to their suitability to continue their study programmes.