ASSIMILATE is a National Teacher Fellowship Scheme (NTFS) project funded jointly by Leeds Metropolitan University and the Higher Education Academy.

 

It is an innovative student-centred investigation into assessing Masters degrees in the UK and internationally. Recognising that limited prior research has been undertaken in this area. We will involve second-year journalism students undertaking interviews face-to-face, via email, phone and internet–based audio/video conferencing.

 

Following initial process piloting, the students will be trained in interview techniques and briefed on the diverse assessment methods they are likely to encounter. Using a rigorous framework developed by the project team, who are advised by a Steering and Evaluation group of assessment experts, the first cohort will conduct interviews in year one to establish baseline data. In year two, the second cohort will follow these up with further in-depth questioning, as well as undertaking new interviews The last cohort in year three will undertake further interviews and refine with the project team the case studies and vignettes. Journalism students will have authentic experiences in investigating, writing and potentially externally publishing real assignments. Outputs as contributions to new knowledge will include a digest of Masters assessment methods/approaches, international case studies/vignettes and a final report.

 

Dissemination will be local in year one, national in year two, with a final international conference in year three.