Grading and Assessment
using Principles of Universal Instructional Design (UID)

Instructional materials and activities should	EXAMPLES FOR GRADING AND ASSESSMENT
be accessible and fair.	Consider using on-line quizzes for at least some of the graded portion of the course. Allow sufficient time for students to demonstrate mastery without undue time pressures.
be straightforward and consistent.	Ensure consistency among the stated learning objectives and the methods of assessment.
provide flexibility in use, participation and presentation.	Offer alternatives to in-class written exams.
be explicitly presented and readily perceived.	Provide clear wording on tests and exams, avoiding complex sentence structures, double negatives and embedded questions.
provide a supportive learning environment.	Give constructive as well as encouraging feedback (this includes computer-generated feedback). Organize peer-reviewed practice periods.
minimize unnecessary physical effort or requirements.	Allow the use of suitable tools such as word processors, calculators, etc.
ensure a learning space that accommodates both students and instructional methods.	Ask students for ideas about appropriate assessment schemes given the parameters of the course and the classroom environment.

Top 10 Tips

Consider these principles in terms of physical space and the overall student experience.
Imagine yourself being unable to see, hear, move or otherwise keep pace with others. In this case, what would YOU wish your TAs and instructors would do?
Make yourself available in a variety of ways, for example face-to-face and through email.
Expand your techniques. For example, if you now like to answer questions through words then consider ways to add sketches on the black(white)board to explain concepts.
Ask students for ideas.
Discuss UID and your role with other instructors.
Tell the students what you are trying to do. Mention it explicitly, especially at the first class session.
Ask other instructors what they are doing.
Attend Professional Development conferences and workshops.
Never stop your own learning.


	Teaching Support Services • Day Hall, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1 • 519 824-4120 x52973 • Fax 821-8530