coursework

Coursework refers to assignments and tasks assigned as part of a course, completed by students outside or in parallel with class sessions, and submitted for assessment. It includes essays, research papers, lab reports, problem sets, design projects, portfolios, presentations, and reflective journals. Coursework is typically designed to demonstrate a student's understanding, analytical ability, and practical skills, and may be scheduled across a term with multiple deadlines or concentrated in a single submission.

In educational contexts, coursework serves as a form of continuous assessment, supplementing or sometimes substituting for formal examinations. It allows students to engage with material more deeply, conduct investigations, and develop writing and communication skills. Assessment is usually guided by rubrics or marking criteria that describe expected outcomes in areas such as understanding, methodological rigor, originality, and clarity. Feedback is often provided to guide improvement, and some courses include opportunities for revisions.

Policies for coursework vary by level and jurisdiction. Common issues include late submission penalties, resubmission or retry options, group work versus individual work, collaboration rules, and accommodations for disabilities. Academic integrity concerns—such as plagiarism and falsification—are addressed through originality checks, citation requirements, and disciplinary procedures.

Coursework contrasts with examinations in that it emphasizes ongoing work, application of knowledge, and process over a single test. It can be formative, aimed at learning enhancement, or summative, contributing to final grades. In many institutions, coursework constitutes a significant portion of a course grade and may influence a student's overall academic record.