Self and Peer Assessment of a Group Project Designed to Promote the Skills of Capability

Abstract The concept of capability is discussed in relation to life both inside and outside the education system. Criteria of capability are elaborated, and the extent to which these criteria are met by a traditional system of education considered. Suggestions are made as to how the skills of capability ‐ competence, confidence, coping, creativity and cooperation — may be better promoted in higher education. A group film making project designed to increase student autonomy in learning and promote the skills of capability is described. Problems of group project assessment are discussed. The historical background to, and development of, a self and peer process assessment questionnaire are described. The outcome of the project in terms of both product and process are discussed and the perceived benefits of the project elaborated. The process analysis exercise is itself evaluated. Modifications to the self and peer process assessment questionnaire are proposed and suggestions made for possible future uses.