DKIT To Host TEAM Conference: Enhancing Assessment in Science and Health Practical Settings

Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) will host the TEAM Project Conference on Friday 23 March 2018. The conference theme centres the Enhancement of Assessment in Science and Health Practical Settings and will take place in the Muirheavna Building, DKIT from 09.30 - 15.00.

In Science and Health practical sessions, the development of both technical and soft skills is essential in terms of both student learning and employability. The Irish Higher Education sector places a major value on producing graduates who are ‘workplace ready’ with an emphasis on developing practical skills. It is widely recognised that assessment can influence student learning, effort and engagement. However, there is considerable scope for improvement in practical assessment practices at undergraduate level where concerns such as over-assessment, authenticity and graduate skill development are widely acknowledged.

The Technology Enhanced Assessment Methods (TEAM) project led by Dundalk IT, partnering with IT Sligo, Athlone IT and IT Carlow has explored the potential offered by digital technologies to address these concerns. It has developed a framework for applying the principles of good assessment and feedback to practical assessment and facilitated dialogue among stakeholders about what it is we want students to learn in practical classes and how our assessment choices can facilitate this.

This conference will present and explore findings from the 2-year TEAM project, offering staff and students the opportunities to learn about, and discuss, the impact and benefits of the technologies introduced. TEAM members will be able to provide advice and guidance on introducing these technologies to the practical environment. Key note lectures shall be provided by Professor Kay Sambell and Dr. Michael Seery. Details of the final agenda to follow on our website: www.teamshp.ie. We hope you can make it, looking forward to welcoming you to DkIT!

The TEAM Project is funded by the National Forum for the Enhancement of Learning and Teachng in Higher Education.