Project-led Engineering Education : assessment model and rounding errors analysis

Abstract

This paper presents an analysis of the assessment model used in an interdisciplinary Project-Led Education (PLE) process implemented in the Integrated Master Course on Industrial Management and Engineering (IME) at University of Minho. PLE is an innovative educational methodology which makes use of active learning, promoting higher levels of motivation and students’ autonomy. The assessment model is based on multiple evaluation components with different weights. Each component can be evaluated by several teachers involved in different Project Supporting Courses (PSC). This model can be affected by different types of errors, namely: (1) rounding errors, and (2) non-uniform criteria of rounding the grades. A rigorous analysis of the assessment model was made and the rounding errors involved on each project component characterised. This resulted in a global maximum error of 0.308 on the individual student project grade, in a 0 to 100 scale. This analysis intended to improve not only the reliability of the assessment results, but also teachers’ awareness to this problem. Recommendations are also made in order to improve the assessment model and reduce the rounding errors as much as possible.