In Session 2023-34, the Mackintosh School of Architecture, MSA, piloted a Submission Window for summative assessment within all courses and all years, to recognise the challenges that students were facing at times of assessment.
In recent academic sessions, MSA had seen a significant increase in the number of students submitting extension requests. While this initially was predominantly in graduating years and thought to be connected to the impact of COVID, this increase was sustained across session 2022-23 and grew to involve all levels and programmes.
MSA piloted a ‘Submission Window’ which applied to all summative assessments within the school. The Submission Window was designed to provide students with a set period of time by which to submit assessments allowing students agency to submit work within a 5 day period. This approach supported equality, diversity and inclusion, providing agency and flexibility for students at the point of assessment.
The success of the Submission Window pilot was analysed and feedback from students was collated. Students felt the Submission Window removed pressure, anxiety and allowed for anonymity and a sense of fairness at submission time. They also felt it supported students to stagger their workload, was helpful for time management and supported students with other responsibilities like working or carrying commitments.
This presentation looks at the journey to develop and implement the Submission Window. How it was measured and what impact this has had on the students experience of assessment.