Compassionate assessments in HE: using a trauma-informed approach to develop an assessment design strategy and feedforward practice

This brief communication offers reflections, through the lens of trauma-informed education, on the implementation of a portfolio approach to assessment design and feedback within a large business school department. Recognising the interconnectedness of assessment and feedback, we have fostered a more caring and compassionate culture at the department level by leveraging the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. Being guided by trauma-informed education, we also strengthened the importance of anchoring teaching practices within an ethic of care (Keeling, 2014). Our approach involved the introduction of flexible assessment design and feed-forward strategies, complemented by staff development workshops focused on race awareness and inclusive best practices. We advocate for adopting a trauma-informed approach, emphasising compassionate leadership and transparency to drive meaningful change. Our experience underscores the importance of nurturing a compassionate culture in assessment design and feedback, especially during times of trauma, empowering both students and colleagues to thrive academically.