Principles for effective degree algorithm design

1. provide an appropriate and reliable summary of a student’s performance against the learning outcomes, reflecting the design, delivery and structure of a degree programme
   
2. fairly reflect a student’s performance without unduly over-emphasising particular aspects, with consideration being taken at the design stage of how each element within a method of classification interacts with other elements
   
3.  protect academic standards by adhering to the current conventions and national reference points used to define classification bands and boundaries
   
4. normally be reviewed at least every five years – or alongside national cyclical review timetables – to ensure algorithms remain relevant and appropriate, with input from across the provider, including students, academic and non-academic staff, and accrediting bodies
   
5. be designed and reviewed in a way that is mindful of the impact of different calculation approaches to classification for different groups of students
   
6.  be communicated and explained clearly to students, both in how it works and why
   

Degree algorithm practice in 2020: research report