Coursework makes up an essential component of your learning experience. You will need to submit coursework at some point when enrolled in a course at Forus Training. We understand that maintaining a balance between academic work and other commitments is not easy. It requires dedication, organisation, and creativity to produce a work tailored to your course’s specific expectations. In this post we discuss how your work is graded and what you can do to score well.
How is your coursework graded?
It helps to know how you will be graded on your work so that you can work towards the highest possible grade. Let’s take a look at the grading criteria for Level 4, 5, and 6 awards:
Pass – A learner receives a Pass if they meet the minimal requirements. A student must acquire a grade between 50-64% to receive a pass. It shows that the learner has achieved the outlined learning outcomes. This grade also requires the learner to attempt to apply the theory and concepts appropriately.
Merit – A learner receives a Merit grade if they surpass the basic standards. A learner must get a grade between 65-79% to receive a merit grade. The learners are expected to demonstrate initiative, evaluation, and analytical skills for this grade. An overall good standard is expected from the work produced.
Distinction – A student receives a Distinction when they significantly exceed the minimum requirements. A student must get a grade of 80% or above in order to receive a distinction. This grade implies that an excellent standard has been achieved by the learner. You are expected to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the topic, as well as demonstrate analytical and reflective thinking.
While our trainers will provide detailed instructions on what they expect in assignments, the following are some things to keep in mind while aiming to do well on your coursework.
- What is the assessment brief?
- Time management is key
- The right approach to research
- Stick to the rules!
What is the assessment brief?
Although it may seem a bit obvious, you’d be amazed at how often learners begin working on something before fully comprehending the question. What are you being asked to perform by the assignment? What topics does it deal with? Before you do anything, be sure you understand this. It’s advised to seek guidance from your trainer if you are unsure. We at Forus Training provide learners with an assessment brief for every course. This brief includes guidelines for assessments, exams and/or skills demos. It also has a marking scheme and a reading list that might be beneficial for learners.
Time management is key
Time management is crucial if you want to have enough time to complete the coursework. If writing is not your favourite task, for instance, you may put it off until the last minute, which could cause stress. Make sure you are not procrastinating, and start the task at hand as soon as possible Alternately, if there are impending deadlines, break up all of your commitments and focus on your coursework first to give yourself a head start.
The right approach to research
The first thing you should do after receiving the coursework requirements is to do in-depth and pertinent research. The level of prior research will determine how well your work will turn out. That study will serve as the source of all your knowledge and data. Use reliable sources that can provide you with facts and figures, such as academic journals, books, government papers, and web articles.
Stick to the rules!
It’s imperative that you have a firm grasp of the rules and regulations before you begin working on your coursework. It’s a serious matter if you break the regulations, whether intentionally or unintentionally, since it might lead to the disqualification of your coursework or perhaps your whole qualification.
- Plagiarism: Given the easy access to relevant information on the internet nowadays, this is particularly worrisome. You might need to sign a statement declaring that the coursework is your own original work, so make sure everything is written in your own words. Our plagiarism policy can be found here: https://forustraining.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/P9-S8-C1-Malpractice-and-Plagiarism-Policy.docx.pdf
- Word Count: Check the word limit and adhere to it. Furthermore, find out whether the word count includes bibliographies, appendices, and footnotes.
- Proofreading: Check your writing for apparent typos and errors by reading it thoroughly. Make sure all of your citations and quotes are correct by reading it again. Go through it once more to check if there are any writing style changes that need to be made. Could it have been stated any clearer? Is the point sufficiently clear? Having someone else read your work and provide constructive comments might also be beneficial.
- Bibliography: Make sure that you have provided a comprehensive bibliography with all the sources mentioned clearly. The referencing style should also be cohesive for all the sources.
Conclusion
Keeping some points in mind will make managing your coursework much easier, and might also help you score better. Always begin by having an understanding of what is being asked in the assessment brief. This will ensure that all your hard work is directed in the right direction. Managing your time wisely will prevent stress and delays. It is also necessary to have the right approach to research. The better your research, the finer your coursework will be. And most importantly, stick to the rules and regulations that have been outlined for the coursework.
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