OXFORD SU POLICY AND INSIGHTS RESEARCH CONSULTATIONS

Assessment Methods and Cost of Study Projects 2024-25

In response to evolving challenges in higher education and ongoing concerns about financial accessibility, Oxford SU has established two major research initiatives examining assessment methods and cost of study across both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

For more details, please refer to the detailed consultation documents: 

1. Undergraduate Consultation Document

2. Postgraduate Consultation Document

PURPOSE OF THE CONSULTATIONS

These student consultations, led by the Oxford University Student' Union Policy and Insights team, aim to:

1. Understand Student Experiences: Gather comprehensive insights into student experiences of assessment methods and financial challenges across all levels of study.
2. Inform Action: Identify key challenges and opportunities to improve assessment practices and financial support systems.
3. Shape Strategy: Use student feedback to guide the development of policies and initiatives that enhance the educational experience at Oxford.

SCOPE OF THE RESEARCH

I. Assessment Methods Research

The consultation welcomes submissions on:

- The purpose and effectiveness of current examination methods
- Experiences with varied assessment formats introduced during and after COVID-19
- Impact of new technologies, including Large Language Models, on academic assessment
- Accessibility of assessment methods for students with disabilities or learning difficulties
- Changes to DPhil qualification requirements and their effects
- Comparative experiences of different assessment methods

II. Cost of Study Research

The consultation seeks information regarding:

- Complete cost of attendance, including hidden and course-specific expenses
- Impact of financial pressures on academic experience and mental health
- Effectiveness and accessibility of current financial support systems
- Experiences of self-funding students, particularly at postgraduate level
- Course-related expenses beyond standard tuition and living costs
- Access to hardship funds and emergency financial support

WHO CAN CONTRIBUTE?

We particularly welcome submissions from:

- Students from marginalised backgrounds (eg. class, caste, race, gender)
- Course Representatives and Divisional Representatives
- Students with experience of multiple assessment methods
- Self-funding postgraduate students
- Students who have accessed financial support systems
- Students with disabilities 
- International students
- Students who have experienced hardship fund processes

HOW TO CONTRIBUTE

Students Representatives can share their experiences and insights through the following surveys:

1. Undergraduate Study Survey

2. Postgraduate Study Survey: a) Course Rep Survey; b) MCR/GCR Survey

Students can share their experiences and insights through sending and/or scheduling:

1. Direct consultation with Policy Associates
2. Written submissions
3. Focus group participation
4. Individual interviews

CONFIDENTIALITY AND SUPPORT

All submissions will be treated with strict confidentiality. Contributors' identities will be protected in any resulting reports or recommendations.

NEXT STEPS

The Policy and Insights team will:

1. Review all submissions comprehensively
2. Analyse patterns and key themes
3. Develop evidence-based recommendations
4. Present findings to relevant University committees
5. Share updates with the student community

CONTACT INFORMATION

For queries or submissions:

- Undergraduate Study: Jacob Houghie (jacob.houghie@worc.ox.ac.uk) 
- Postgraduate Study: Elena Rollan Martin (elena.rollanmartin@regents.ox.ac.uk)
- General Enquiries: Devanshi Ranjan (devanshi.ranjan@oxfordsu.ox.ac.uk)

The findings from these consultations will play a crucial role in shaping future University policies on assessment methods and financial support systems. Your participation will help ensure that Oxford remains accessible for all students.