Continuous assessment fit for purpose? Analysing the experiences of academics from a South African university of technology

ABSTRACT Despite the expanding literature in the last three decades on modes of implementation and the various forms of formal and informal assessments, there is limited evidence of academics’ knowledge and understanding of continuous assessment practice. Using a mixed methods sequential explanatory research design, this paper aimed to investigate academics’ knowledge and understanding of the structure of continuous assessment and its application in supporting students’ learning experiences at a South African University of Technology. The results of this study provide the basis to initiate deeper discussions on developing shared understandings of assessment literacy, assessment bunching, and assessment validity and reliability. These elements are all required for the enhancement of quality assurance and monitoring of fit for purpose continuous assessment practices.