Aim: To create an automated online pre-test for applicants accepted to IMBRSea that will allow them to voluntarily assess their level for the courses of the first semester and point them to relevant online-resources for each subject.
Due to the different backgrounds of students applying for the IMBRSea programme, there can be substantial differences in academic background and basic skills required for the programme between students from different regions. Currently, this manifests itself only once students start studying. This online toolbox/ self-assessment test will give students a chance to assess their level and ensure that they have the necessary basic skills for the courses taught in Semester 1. There will be a basic automated online test for each subject. At the end of the test, the students will get a score telling them how prepared they are for the coming course and will be able to see which areas they might need to improve on in order to be able to follow the classes of the first semester. At the end of the tests, there will be links to existing online courses or recommended teaching material for each subject that can be used to get to gain those basic skills required for following the classes in the first semester.
Therefore, the pre-test will fulfill three basic functions. Firstly, it can directly benefit students starting the programme to get to the level required for following the courses and support the students in their learning. This will decrease some of the difference in academic level in the cohort before classes even start. Additionally, it will help the students feel more comfortable with starting the course if they are unsure about how their skill level matches the required basic knowledge. This will therefore help them to feel more comfortable as they will have the chance to get a clear idea about how their own skills match the required level. Finally, the results of this test can also be used to get an idea about the general skill level of applicants from different geographic regions and the topics that are difficult for students. This information would help the teachers for each class to have a better idea of the overall skill level and the spread of skills in the class, which they can take into consideration when teaching.
