First introduced at Aberdeen in 2022, TESTA is an innovative method of programmatic review which maps Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs), assessment and feedback practices across a degree programme (UG / PGT). Developed with flexibility in mind and facilitated by the Centre for Academic Development (CAD), TESTA can be tailored to meet the needs of participating disciplines, including aiding preparations for re-accreditation, supporting curriculum reviews and Internal Teaching Reviews (ITRs).
The TESTA process involves five key stages as outlined in the infographic available here.
Feedback from past participants in TESTA:
“Working with CAD in the past had made it clear to me that Assessment and Feedback are central to course design and student engagement. So, when the opportunity to engage with the TESTA process came along, I was delighted to take part. The process allowed us to come together as a department to reflect on key learning goals for each year of the degree programme and how our assessment and feedback processes support these goals. It also allowed us to reflect on workload for staff and students. And finally, it was also a great opportunity to share good practice (of which there was plenty) across the department.” Dr. Gerry Hough, Senior Lecturer and Head of Discipline (Philosophy)
“Engaging with TESTA helped with our programme-level self-evaluation processes, highlighting positive aspects of our assessment practises and identifying key areas for improvements. Central to the process was the genuine collaboration with CAD colleagues, working together to co-design an enhancement plan. The work from this has fed into our reaccreditation process with the General Teaching Council for Scotland and, most importantly, will help to improve student assessment experiences.” Alan Grieve, PGDE Secondary Programme Director (Education)
What are the potential benefits for your Programme?
- Dedicated Time for Evaluation
Protected time to review ILOs, as well as assessment and feedback practices.
- Workload Reduction
Streamline assessments to reduce staff and student workload while fostering inclusive and accessible assessment and feedback practices.
- Support for Key Processes
Assists with preparations for re-accreditations, curriculum reviews and ITRs.
Interested in learning more about TESTA and how your School or Programme can participate?
Contact cad@abdn.ac.uk
