Why did you decide to study the MSc Educational Assessment course at Oxford University?

There was a heavy emphasis on assessment during my teacher education programme, which laid the foundation for my interest in this area.  When I began teaching in international schools, I encountered diverse approaches to classroom based assessment that were influenced by various cultural contexts. These experiences, combined with my interest in using more assessment data to enhance my teaching practices, inspired me to pursue a Master’s related to educational assessment. The MSc Educational Assessment programme at Oxford appealed to me due to the department’s research portfolio that spanned collaborations with the IB, and international projects.

 

What is your full-time job?

I work full time as a high school IB DP chemistry teacher at an international school in Panama.

 

How does the programme support and engage you as a distance learning student?

I felt that the course instructors were always available if there were any questions or concerns, and I thought the reading selections and videos were curated with clear intent of the learning outcomes for the modules.

 

What did you particularly like about the course?

I was able to meet and learn from a diverse group of peers and instructors who enriched each session by bringing unique perspectives and experiences. I also greatly appreciated the exceptional guest speakers that were chosen to provide insights and expertise into the topics we explored.

 

How has studying the course helped with your professional development?

I currently teach at an IB world school and this course has helped me better understand assessment data that is provided by the school and the IB. The course has also helped me be mindful in my design of formative assessments, and the reliability of the assessments I conduct.

 

What do you most value about the teaching at the Department?

All the instructors are very knowledgeable and bring a wealth of expertise to the course. Having the opportunity to learn from some of the leading assessment experts in the country and around the world is an invaluable experience.

 

What is the community like at the Department?

Everyone was very warm and welcoming from the very first induction day. I have met incredible people on this course, and I would confidently say that it feels like a community.

 

What advice would you give to new students who are about to start the course?

My suggestion would be to take everything in with an open mind and take advantage of the time you spend in Oxford.

 

What is your favourite memory of studying at the Department?

My favourite memory from my time at Oxford was attending the Thanksgiving Formal dinner at Kellogg College with many of my friends from the course. Even though I was a distance student, having the in-person weeks for each module allowed me to immerse myself in the traditional Oxford experience.

Anjini Datt