Advance HE Teaching & Learning Conference 2018: Can innovative assessment be used to overcome the integration and engagement issues faced by international students entering British higher education for the first time?

This research outlines an innovative assessment that was designed as part of an immersive learning project for level 6 direct entrant students predominately international Chinese students. The assessment improved integration by building a sense of community and developing self-confidence by providing continuous feedback on the assessment to reassure students and guide them on how to improve their performance. The assessment used online discussion boards placing students outside their comfort zone which enabled them to overcome the social pressures around culture and to develop the employability skills confidence and resilience needed to effectively engage in the module.