Innovating Assessment: Alternative Approaches for Research-led Teaching in Stem and Finance

Abstract Book of the 10th International Conference on Teaching, Learning and Education

Year: 2025

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Innovating Assessment: Alternative Approaches for Research-led Teaching in Stem and Finance

Laleh Tafakori, Dr.jing Fu, Dr. Armin Pourkhanali

ABSTRACT:

Research-led teaching not only bridges the gap between research and student learning but also invites us to rethink how teaching effectiveness is assessed. In STEM disciplines, where inquiry, problem-solving, and innovation are central, traditional exam-based assessments often fail to capture the breadth of student learning outcomes. In this work, we explore how research-led teaching can be combined with alternative assessment strategies such as project-based learning, inquiry-driven assignments, and industry-linked collaborations to evaluate students more holistically. We will also discuss inclusivity in assessment design, ensuring that diverse student needs are met while maintaining rigour and relevance. By aligning assessment with research-led teaching, educators can create more inclusive, rigorous, and practice-oriented learning experiences that better prepare graduates for real-world challenges; we demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach in the case studies we conducted.

Keywords: Alternative Assessment, Project-Based Learning, Research-Led Teaching, Research Skills, Stem Education