Diversifying End of Module Assessment Project Options on a Level 3 Classical Studies Module – A Pilot Study to Evaluate Pedagogic Strategies and Assess Benefits and Challenges

This pilot is related to the production of a new module on Greek and Roman myth which places a dual emphasis on developing students’ skills for independent academic research and communicating to non-specialist audiences. The assessment task piloted here will be offered as one of two options for the end of module independent project. It asks students to curate a one-room exhibition on a topic related to Greek and Roman myth of their own choice. Students will need to explain the rationale for this exhibition, present the underpinning research they have done, and devise a plan for a visitor experience including a schematic 3D-presentation of how the exhibits are arranged in the exhibition space, an introductory wall text, and several object labels.  

This option is particularly suited to making use of the wealth of visual material and objects which make up the body of evidence of Greek and Roman myth and will encourage students to make their studies relevant for their own contemporary and local context by e.g., designing their exhibition with a local audience, a current issue, and a public space near them in mind. The aim is to give this project an authentic feel and make it meaningful for students, and it is hoped that this option will appeal to different types of learners and will be inclusive to students of diverse backgrounds. 

 In designing this assessment task, several challenges have been identified and the pilot study here is designed to explore these challenges together with the perceived benefits.  

The pilot is planned to run over two consecutive weeks from 28 June 2021 until 09 July 2021. The final evaluation of the project will take place in September 2021.