Continuous Assessment Under Pressure: Evaluating the Tri-Semester System in Selected Malaysian Private Higher Educations

Zaliza Azan and Rosmawati Mohd Daud and Mazlan Abd Ghani and Azi Izwani Nor Hamzah and Suriza Noor, Fahmi Hashim and Nor Suhaila Samsuri (2025) Continuous Assessment Under Pressure: Evaluating the Tri-Semester System in Selected Malaysian Private Higher Educations. International Journal of Advanced Research in Education and Society, 7 (6). pp. 594-600. ISSN 2682-8138

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Abstract

This research explores how the Tri-Semester System influences continuous assessment practices in private higher education institutions (PHEIs) in Malaysia. Unlike the traditional two-semester academic year, the tri-semester model divides the year into three shorter instructional periods, often lasting around 12–14 weeks each. While this system is promoted for flexibility and speedier graduation, its compressed structure may hinder students’ ability to produce high-quality group projects and manage assessments effectively. Through a qualitative design involving semi-structured interviews with lecturers and students, this research explores their lived experiences regarding workload, pedagogical adaptation, and institutional support. The analysis reveals substantial pressure tied to continuous assessments within tight timelines, prompting innovative pedagogical and structural responses by educators. Recommendations highlight the need for adaptive assessment design, enhanced support systems, and institutional reforms to better align assessment practices with the demands of the tri-semester format. The findings aim to guide educators and policymakers in optimizing continuous assessment under accelerated academic calendars and suggest future research directions to refine teaching strategies in this context.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Tri-Semester System; Continuous Assessment; Private Higher Learning Institutions; Malaysia
Divisions:	Faculty of Business and Accountancy (FABA)
Depositing User:	LIBRARY2 UPTM
Date Deposited:	17 Sep 2026 04:38
Last Modified:	17 Sep 2026 04:38
URI:	http://eprints.uptm.edu.my/id/eprint/6178

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