TIMED-OBE VS ASSIGNMENTS
A Timed Open Book Exam and Assignment are both a form of open book assessment, with both
requiring an element of research and synthesis. However there are a few factors that differentiate the
two assessment methods.
1 FORMAT & STRUCTURE
TIMED-OBE
To complete a Timed-OBE learners should use
the question and answer booklet provided by
ABE.
2 WORDCOUNT
TIMED-OBE
Timed-OBEs have a smaller wordcount and ABE
provides a breakdown of the wordcount, clearly
outlining how many words are expected per
question.
3 TIME
TIMED-OBE
Learners have 3 weeks to complete a Timed-
OBE. A key element of timed-OBE is in
the preparation throughout your learning you
should keep detailed notes from lectures, study
guides and wider reading.
Time management is essential, you have less
time to complete the Timed-OBE and therefore
need to be organised. To improve your time
management skills we recommend completing
the time management course on the ABE Edge.
Please also read the following ABE guides:
Timed-OBE Guide
Assignment Guide
ABE © 2022 - v1.0
ASSIGNMENTS
Whilst ABE provides guidance and a
basic structure for learners to follow, learners
have more control over the format of their
assignment as each tasks interrelates, so more
synthesis and free writing is required. 
ASSIGNMENTS
Assignments have a higher
wordcount compared to Timed-OBEs and it is
the responsibility of the learner  to break down
and assign the wordcount across the tasks.
ASSIGNMENTS
Learners have longer to complete their
assignment, usually between 7-8 weeks.
Learners are expected to conduct greater
research and provided more detail and use the
time to develop answers.
Time management is essential, although you
have longer to complete your assignment, time
could easily slip away. To improve your time
management skills we recommend completing
the time management course on the ABE Edge.