Assessment of learning outcomes

Both differentiated (examination) and non-differentiated (pass-fail assessment) assessment of learning outcomes are used in Tallinn University. Assessment is based on the level of the achieved learning outcomes. Learning outcomes are the knowledge, skills and attitudes or combinations thereof (competences) obtained as a result of studying.

In the case of differentiated assessment, the following scale is used to differentiate between the levels of acquisition of learning outcomes:

A (excellent) – an outstanding and excellent level of achievement of learning outcomes characterized by free and creative use of knowledge and skills beyond a very good level.
B (very good) – a very good level of achievement of learning outcomes characterized by purposeful and creative use of knowledge and skills. Might make mistakes, which are not substantive and conceptual, in regard to specific and more detailed knowledge and skills.
C (good) – a good level of achievement of learning outcomes characterized by purposeful use of knowledge and skills. Uncertainty and inaccuracies may occur in regard to more specific and detailed knowledge.
D (satisfactory) – a sufficient level of achievement of learning outcomes characterized by the use of knowledge and skills in typical situations. Deficiencies and uncertainties occur in non-standard situations.
E (poor) – a minimally acceptable level of achievement of learning outcomes characterized by limited use of knowledge and skills in typical situations. Noticeable deficiencies and uncertainties occur in non-standard situations.
F (fail) – a student has acquired knowledge and skills at a level below the required minimum.
MI (non-appeared) – If a student does not participate in any examinations or pass-fail assessments, the result is marked as “MI” (non-appeared) on the transcript of records.

In case of non-differentiated assessment

In case of non-differentiated assessment, the acquisition of learning outcomes is compared to an established level and if the level of learning outcomes of the student is equal or higher, then the result is assessed as sufficient with the word "pass" or P and if the level of learning outcomes of a student is lower than the level established, then the result is assessed as insufficient with the word "fail" or MA.

P (pass) – the student has acquired the knowledge and skills required; a positive outcome.
MA (fail) – the student has failed to acquire the knowledge and skills at the required level; a negative outcome.

Average grade and weighted average grade

In calculating a student’s average grade and weighted average grade, the letter marks shall correspond to the following numerical values: A = 5, B = 4, C = 3, D = 2, E = 1, and F = 0. ‘Pass’ (P) assessment acquired on a pass/fail evaluation shall not be included in the calculation of the average grade and weighted grade.

Weighted average grade for each study period is calculated as a sum of the product of all grades and ECTS credit points for the period divided by a total of all ECTS credit points obtained during the period.

Weighted average grade is taken into account:

in appointing study allowances and bursaries,
in preparing a list of candidates for the available student places,
in issuing a cum laude diploma.

Average grade is calculated by dividing the sum of all grades acquired by the number of subjects.

In issuing a diploma cum laude and when filling vacant student places, only positive performances are taken into account in the calculation of the weighted average grade. When calculating the weighted average grade in granting study allowances and scholarships, all performances given on a differentiated scale are taken into account, including the preliminary results in the cases where the student has had to re-sit exams/assessments.