Abstract:

A continuous evaluation system (CES) is a method advocated within the general framework for the implementation of the European Higher Education Area. Although some students have to work harder to submit the required coursework, they feel safer with CES because their work is gradually assessed and weighted within the final mark of a course. Some other students prefer the traditional evaluation system that does not monitor their performance so closely and the final examination as the assessment procedure. This paper is an examination of a higher education context where a large number of students in a large-sized class are involved in continuous assessment who seem to lack neither an interest in learning the subject content nor strive to achieve course objectives. In effect, this puts into question this method of evaluation (CES). We briefly analyse the difficulties students show in this context and the actions taken in the past to address the situation. Finally, alternatives for self-assessment, reinforcement and focus on student progress are offered by lecturers to increase student active engagement and responsibility in the learning process. In conclusion, the approach of the lecturers makes the evaluation method (CES) more effective and rewarding.

Keywords:

Continuous evaluation system, large number of students, large groups, continuous assessment.