High School Assessment Policy

Introduction

The purpose of this document is to present our school philosophy on assessment, evaluation and reporting and procedures for assessment, evaluation and reporting.

This document provides the faculty of DHIS online with models of effective assessment and reporting practices. In addition, it fulfils requirements set by the standards, principles and practices prescribed by the Department of Education and IEB examinations board. 

1. Online Assessment Requirements:

§  All assessments, including exams and quizzes, must be completed online with the camera turned on throughout the duration of the assessment. This requirement is in place to ensure academic integrity and to monitor student engagement during assessments. 

      2. Camera Usage Guidelines:

§  Students are required to have a working camera and microphone for the purpose of online assessments. Cameras must be positioned in a way that captures the student's face, workspace, and any materials they are allowed to use during the assessment. Students must have a stable and reliable internet connection to ensure that the camera feed is not interrupted during the assessment.

§  If students experience technical difficulties with their camera or internet connection during an assessment, they should immediately contact the school's technical support for assistance. In such cases, the school may allow a makeup assessment or alternative arrangements. 

     3. Term Work Completion Requirement:

§  Students are required to have completed at least 80% of their term work before they are eligible to take final exams or assessments. Term work may include assignments, projects, class participation, and other course-specific requirements.

§  The 80% term work completion requirement is designed to encourage students to actively participate in their courses throughout the term and to ensure that they are adequately prepared for assessments. Exceptions to this policy may be considered on a case-by-case basis for students with documented extenuating circumstances. 

      4. Communication and Notification:

§  The school administration will communicate this policy to all students and their parents or guardians at the beginning of the school year and provide any necessary guidance on camera usage. Teachers will remind students of the camera and term work completion requirements in advance of each assessment. Students who have concerns or questions about the policy should reach out to their teachers, school counsellors, or administrators for clarification and support. 

      5. Due Dates and Late Submissions:

§  Assignment due dates will be clearly communicated in the course syllabus. Students are expected to submit work by the specified deadlines. Late submissions may be subject to penalties or restrictions, as indicated in the course guidelines. 

      6. Rubrics and Assessment Criteria:

§  Grading rubrics and assessment criteria will be provided for each assignment type to ensure transparency and consistency in grading. These criteria will be shared with students at the beginning of each course. 

      7. Feedback and Communication:

§  Teachers will provide timely and constructive feedback on student assignments, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement. Feedback may be given in written, audio, or video format, as appropriate. 

      8. Academic Integrity and Plagiarism:

§  The school maintains a strong commitment to academic integrity. Clear policies will be in place to address issues of cheating, plagiarism, and academic dishonesty, including consequences and guidelines for proper citation and source attribution. 

      9. Grading Timeline:

§  Grades will be updated and communicated to students and parents or guardians on a regular basis, as outlined in the school's communication schedule. 

     10.  Appeals and Disputes:

§  The school will provide a process for students to appeal their grades or dispute grading decisions. Students will have access to a designated point of contact and clear steps for resolution.

     11.  Support and Accommodations:

§  The school will provide support and accommodations for students who require them due to disabilities or other special circumstances. This may include extended time for assessments, alternative assessment methods, or other accommodations in compliance with relevant laws and regulations. 

     12.  Data Privacy and Security:

§  The school is committed to protecting the privacy and security of student data, adhering to all applicable laws and regulations as set out in the POPIA Act.