EDEM630 Research paper assignment rubric

Assessment Dimension	Category	C Level	B Level	A Level	%
Analysis of Literature	Annotated bibliography: Number, format and relevance	Minimum of 10 additional resources included to list from Assignment 1. The annotated bibliography contains a description of the research and concise statement of the research problem. Resources selected are reasonably aligned with the research topic, but evaluation section tends to focus on superficial links.	As for C but evidence that the bibliography and annotations have been filtered through the lens of the research topic as evidenced by the evaluation statements which succeed in identifying key issues. The sources represent a good cross section of research (pros and cons) and are relevant to the selected topic. The quality of sources is clear from the review.	The sources have been judiciously selected to ensure different aspects of the topic are covered. Sources are focused on the chosen topic and context and not merely a list of resources consulted. Learner demonstrates scholarly insight into identifying key issues of the published literature as it relates to the research topic. The evaluations demonstrate thorough and detailed attention to the literature findings.	30
Analysis of Literature	Variety, timeliness, authority/relevance of sources	Most sources from one source type. Inappropriate mix of recency for the research topic with little attention to contemporary research on the topic. A few inappropriate sources / authorities included.	Most sources are a mix of two source types. Dates of most resources appropriate for the research topic. Mix of authoritative and less authoritative research appropriate for the research topic.	Variety of source types appropriate for the research topic/ case study. Learner demonstrates a contemporary selection of recent research publications appropriate for the study. All sources are from reputable and authoritative publications.	10
Academic writing	Use of references, integration of quotes and in-text citations	A number of citations, quotes or references don’t appear to serve any purpose and seem to be “stuck in”. No evidence of plagiarism or text copied without proper citation. A few quotes are not integrated well. A few citation errors. Overuse of long quotations which appear to be used to aid the word count for the article.	Quotes and references serve a purpose in support of the authors assertions. No evidence of plagiarism or text copied without proper citation. Appropriate use of quotations and references to support the logic and research underpinning the paper.	As for B, but clever and insightful inclusion of intext citations to support assertions. The student demonstrates scholarly ability in the differentiation of citations and references for: background information supporting the authors thesis or as support for a specific point	20
Academic writing	Paper structure, logic and concept validation	Article / case study was written at an acceptable standard and includes required components (abstract, problem formulation, analysis and discussion and conclusions). The logic of the structure is apparent, but focus, logical flow and linkages can be improved for example, analysis does not provide sufficient justifiable evidence in addressing the research question. Problem statement or analytical responses can be refined, for instance: problem statement is too wide for the scope of the paper, or supporting literature not adequate to justify the assertions. A few superficial or practical elements rather than deeper engagement with concepts and ideas. Some of the conclusions, are not supported in the body of the paper. Only a few unjustified assertions or statements which would ordinarily warrant citation or references. The students demonstrate that they, to a large extent, understand and have applied the concepts learned in the course.	As for C, but the students demonstrate that they have understood and applied relevant concepts learned in the course and show a level of critical insight. The student ties together information from all the sources and the paper flows logically. There is also a logical connection between the conclusion and preceding review without missing key recommendations. The student's writing demonstrates an understanding of the relationship among the research literature, the research topic and own findings. The author strikes an appropriate balance between the introduction, body and conclusion and does not exceed the word count for the article. The topic is focused but the author may not have succeeded in providing a clear and justified personal position on all the necessary dimensions.	As for B, but the students clearly demonstrates that they understand and have applied the concepts learned in the course with a high level of critical and scholarly insight. The research question is clear, unambiguous and relevant. The author strikes the appropriate balance between breadth and depth for the review. Research that complements, confirms or contradicts is noted. The concepts covered in the article are integrated into the authors own critical insights with appropriate scholarly justification. The student's concluding remarks illustrate a high level of academic analysis and synthesis of ideas.	30
Communication	Mechanics and writing	The article and annotated bibliography follow the guidelines for structure and content. The article meets most of the author guidelines of the International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning. The sources are referenced in correct APA formatting with only a few errors. Syntax, typographical or spelling errors do not detract from the message.	In addition to that required for a C, the writing is clear and is competently constructed to inform educators with all sources and opinions acknowledged. No spelling syntax or typographical errors. The article is authored to the requirements of the author guidelines of the International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning. The student adheres to APA formatting and style.	The review and bibliography is well constructed, straightforward, clear and of value to academic peers. The formatting follows APA and the work is accurate. The level of writing is consistently high.	10