The Reality of Continuous Assessment Strategies on Saudi Students' Performance at University Level

This study was carried out to explore the assessment practice in Saudi universities with the major focus on Continuous Assessment Strategies. The study specifically aimed to find out the different assessment strategies and their contribution to students’ learning and performance. It was conducted in Jubail University College and Al Mustaqbal University involving a sample of one hundred and fifty students and forty five teachers. Data was collected qualitatively and quantitatively using students’ academic records and questionnaires. From the findings, it was observed that the use of continuous assessment helps students to understand difficult areas related to the EFL content. The study revealed that although there are various kinds of continuous assessment strategies, EFL teachers at both the universities generally employed take-home assignments, written tests and recap exercises to assess how the EFL students learn English language. Continuous assessment also provides more confidence to students and prepares them for final examinations. Therefore, it was recommended that the competent EFL teachers, who are trained and knowledgeable about evaluation strategies and procedures, should be motivated to share their expertise in order to improve the performance of Saudi EFL university students.