Using narrative fiction as a means of assessing and learning in a history of social welfare module.

Abstract

This article describes a narrative development project undertaken by students on a History of Social Welfare module at a British university. Students were asked to choose a character, setting and story from a range of scenarios and time periods that reflected many of the key areas covered in lecture and seminar classes. The narrative was not formally assessed but aligned closely with the summative assessment for the module. Students were expected, in their narratives, to identify and make explicit reference to legislation, social policy information and sociological/anthropological concepts pertinent to the period and chosen character. Most students played an active part in the construction of the narratives and were encouraged to consider aspects of meta-learning, including how they can work with others and cooperate as a member of a team. As a result of the success of this form of assessment, the project has been developed into the core mode of assessment for this module in future years of delivery.