Hurdle assessments

Hurdle assessments play a critical role in education, serving as both a learning tool and a standard-setting mechanism for minimum attainment levels. They ensure students meet essential competencies, which are often aligned with professional standards or core course outcomes. In essence, hurdle assessments play a vital role in upholding the quality and credibility of educational programs (CSU, 2024).

Why?

Hurdle assessments require students to meet a minimum standard in specific tasks or course components to pass. This ensures the attainment of essential skills and knowledge, promoting competency and readiness for further learning or professional practice (CSU, 2024; VU, 2024).

“A hurdle assessment is an assessment task that mandates a minimum level of performance as a requirement for passing the subject. For example, achievement of a pass grade or above in a skills-based assessment or a final examination.”  
- UOW Assessment and Feedback Policy (Section 8, Line 50) 

Mandatory attendance may also be required when:

• Performance is evaluated during a clinical, teaching, or other placement over a specified period.
• Artistic or athletic performance is assessed.
• Skill development is demonstrated in a laboratory or similar setting.

Hurdle assessments are therefore significant to academics for several reasons, including:

• They help maintain high academic standards by ensuring that all students meet essential learning outcomes (Best & Best, 2009). This is particularly important in professional courses where specific competencies are required for practice.
• They offer clear and objective measures of student performance, enabling educators to identify areas requiring additional support. This targeted approach to student support can improve overall learning outcomes and reduce the risk of students falling behind (CSU, 2024).
• They enhance academic program credibility by showcasing a commitment to rigorous and meaningful assessment practices. This can be particularly important in attracting high-quality students and faculty, as well as in securing accreditation from professional bodies.
• They promote equity by holding all students to the same standards and providing equal opportunities to succeed (Best & Best, 2009).

How?

Implementing hurdle assessments involves several key steps:

1. Define clear and specific learning outcomes that outline the essential skills and knowledge students must demonstrate. Align these outcomes with professional standards and course objectives.
2. Design assessment tasks that effectively measure these outcomes. Tasks should be challenging yet achievable, providing a fair and accurate evaluation of student performance.
3. Establish clear criteria and standards for passing the hurdle assessment and communicate them effectively to students. Provide detailed feedback on performance and offer remediation opportunities when needed.
4. Monitor and evaluate the assessment process to ensure effectiveness and fairness. Regularly review assessment tasks and criteria, and collect and analyse data on student performance.
5. Provide support and resources to help students prepare for and succeed in hurdle assessments. This could include tutoring, study materials, or practice assessments.

References