Evaluation as Enhancement: A Review of Continuous Assessment Strategies in Open and Distance Learning

Parvesh  Kumari; Ali  Asgar

Parvesh Kumari Staff Training and Research Institute of Distance Education, IGNOU, Maidan Garhi, New Delhi
Ali Asgar Staff Training and Research Institute of Distance Education, IGNOU, Maidan Garhi, New Delhi

Keywords: Open and Distance Learning | Continuous Assessment | Assessment Strategies | Evaluation | Assignments

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study is to aware the ODL learners for self-directed learning habits and prepare to face the continuous assessment process during the study. The purpose of this paper is also timely completion and submission of work by the learner and remove the errors according to tutor`s feedback. Through this study efforts are to introduce the learner about dynamic feature of open and distance learning (ODL) where teacher and learner are at distance, so feedback of tutor is the only major communicating tool between the teacher and learner. By using this tool learner can improve and upgrade their knowledge level to complete the programme successfully.

Design/Methodology/Approach: The descriptive exploratory research method was used to develop this research paper. The study was carried out with the help of literature review and different secondary data in the form of books on the related topic, research papers, articles, and various documents available online or offline. Content of the above resources which were limited to a few institutions and also few studies on importance of continuous assessment and importance of its appropriate framework were reviewed findings drawn and recommendations made.

Findings: It was found that continuous assessment supports, contributes and prepare the learners for final examinations. It provides the freedom to learner for best learning practices during the academic session. Tutor’s feedback and reflection of grades in grade cards is an important part of the TL process. Learners’ satisfaction and good results give the credibility to ODL system. Continuous assessment framework adopted by institutions and submission of work by learner and timely feedback on it by the tutors improve the students` academic achievement(s).

Originality/Value: The paper is original work and based on available secondary data. This paper may help ODL institutions how to improve success rate of learners and establish its credibility among target group.

Paper Type: Review of Literature.