Incorporating a variety of assessment tools in a web-based postgraduate course developed for practicing engineers

Abstract

Practicing engineers seek to enhance their careers through upgrading skills. Coursework based postgraduate programs are being offered by various institutions targeting these engineers. While face-to-face lectures are feasible in certain circumstances, these courses are ideally suited for web-based delivery, due its flexibility in learning and teaching. Due to industry driven demand, a graduate certificate program was introduced recently by the Faculty. One of the major challenges faced in the design and delivery of courses within this program is the need to cater for a diverse student cohort with varying industry experience. The experiences of the author in developing two courses this graduate program is be discussed in this paper. These courses have been successfully delivered employing a variety of assessment tools. These include summative assessments such as a minor assignment, online discussions and quizzes and a major design project. Designing a course with a variety of assessment tools not only enhances the student learning experience, but also provides an enjoyable challenge for the lecturer.