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Solving an Assignment Problem

This section presents an example that shows how to solve an assignment problem using both the MIP solver and the CP-SAT solver.

In the example there are five workers (numbered 0-4) and four tasks (numbered 0-3). Note that there is one more worker than in the example in the Overview .

The costs of assigning workers to tasks are shown in the following table.

The problem is to assign each worker to at most one task, with no two workers performing the same task, while minimizing the total cost. Since there are more workers than tasks, one worker will not be assigned a task.

MIP solution

The following sections describe how to solve the problem using the MPSolver wrapper .

Import the libraries

The following code imports the required libraries.

Create the data

The following code creates the data for the problem.

The costs array corresponds to the table of costs for assigning workers to tasks, shown above.

Declare the MIP solver

The following code declares the MIP solver.

Create the variables

The following code creates binary integer variables for the problem.

Create the constraints

Create the objective function.

The following code creates the objective function for the problem.

The value of the objective function is the total cost over all variables that are assigned the value 1 by the solver.

Invoke the solver

The following code invokes the solver.

Print the solution

The following code prints the solution to the problem.

Here is the output of the program.

Complete programs

Here are the complete programs for the MIP solution.

CP SAT solution

The following sections describe how to solve the problem using the CP-SAT solver.

Declare the model

The following code declares the CP-SAT model.

The following code sets up the data for the problem.

The following code creates the constraints for the problem.

Here are the complete programs for the CP-SAT solution.

Except as otherwise noted, the content of this page is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License , and code samples are licensed under the Apache 2.0 License . For details, see the Google Developers Site Policies . Java is a registered trademark of Oracle and/or its affiliates.

Last updated 2024-08-28 UTC.

Assignment Problem: Meaning, Methods and Variations | Operations Research

After reading this article you will learn about:- 1. Meaning of Assignment Problem 2. Definition of Assignment Problem 3. Mathematical Formulation 4. Hungarian Method 5. Variations.

Meaning of Assignment Problem:

An assignment problem is a particular case of transportation problem where the objective is to assign a number of resources to an equal number of activities so as to minimise total cost or maximize total profit of allocation.

The problem of assignment arises because available resources such as men, machines etc. have varying degrees of efficiency for performing different activities, therefore, cost, profit or loss of performing the different activities is different.

Thus, the problem is “How should the assignments be made so as to optimize the given objective”. Some of the problem where the assignment technique may be useful are assignment of workers to machines, salesman to different sales areas.

Definition of Assignment Problem:

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Suppose there are n jobs to be performed and n persons are available for doing these jobs. Assume that each person can do each job at a term, though with varying degree of efficiency, let c ij be the cost if the i-th person is assigned to the j-th job. The problem is to find an assignment (which job should be assigned to which person one on-one basis) So that the total cost of performing all jobs is minimum, problem of this kind are known as assignment problem.

The assignment problem can be stated in the form of n x n cost matrix C real members as given in the following table:

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Assignment problem in linear programming : introduction and assignment model.

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Assignment problem is a special type of linear programming problem which deals with the allocation of the various resources to the various activities on one to one basis. It does it in such a way that the cost or time involved in the process is minimum and profit or sale is maximum. Though there problems can be solved by simplex method or by transportation method but assignment model gives a simpler approach for these problems.

In a factory, a supervisor may have six workers available and six jobs to fire. He will have to take decision regarding which job should be given to which worker. Problem forms one to one basis. This is an assignment problem.

1. Assignment Model :

Suppose there are n facilitates and n jobs it is clear that in this case, there will be n assignments. Each facility or say worker can perform each job, one at a time. But there should be certain procedure by which assignment should be made so that the profit is maximized or the cost or time is minimized.

In the table, Co ij is defined as the cost when j th job is assigned to i th worker. It maybe noted here that this is a special case of transportation problem when the number of rows is equal to number of columns.

Mathematical Formulation:

Any basic feasible solution of an Assignment problem consists (2n – 1) variables of which the (n – 1) variables are zero, n is number of jobs or number of facilities. Due to this high degeneracy, if we solve the problem by usual transportation method, it will be a complex and time consuming work. Thus a separate technique is derived for it. Before going to the absolute method it is very important to formulate the problem.

Suppose x jj is a variable which is defined as

1 if the i th job is assigned to j th machine or facility

0 if the i th job is not assigned to j th machine or facility.

Now as the problem forms one to one basis or one job is to be assigned to one facility or machine.

The total assignment cost will be given by

The above definition can be developed into mathematical model as follows:

Determine x ij > 0 (i, j = 1,2, 3…n) in order to

Subjected to constraints

and x ij is either zero or one.

Method to solve Problem (Hungarian Technique):

Consider the objective function of minimization type. Following steps are involved in solving this Assignment problem,

1. Locate the smallest cost element in each row of the given cost table starting with the first row. Now, this smallest element is subtracted form each element of that row. So, we will be getting at least one zero in each row of this new table.

2. Having constructed the table (as by step-1) take the columns of the table. Starting from first column locate the smallest cost element in each column. Now subtract this smallest element from each element of that column. Having performed the step 1 and step 2, we will be getting at least one zero in each column in the reduced cost table.

3. Now, the assignments are made for the reduced table in following manner.

(i) Rows are examined successively, until the row with exactly single (one) zero is found. Assignment is made to this single zero by putting square □ around it and in the corresponding column, all other zeros are crossed out (x) because these will not be used to make any other assignment in this column. Step is conducted for each row.

(ii) Step 3 (i) in now performed on the columns as follow:- columns are examined successively till a column with exactly one zero is found. Now , assignment is made to this single zero by putting the square around it and at the same time, all other zeros in the corresponding rows are crossed out (x) step is conducted for each column.

(iii) Step 3, (i) and 3 (ii) are repeated till all the zeros are either marked or crossed out. Now, if the number of marked zeros or the assignments made are equal to number of rows or columns, optimum solution has been achieved. There will be exactly single assignment in each or columns without any assignment. In this case, we will go to step 4.

4. At this stage, draw the minimum number of lines (horizontal and vertical) necessary to cover all zeros in the matrix obtained in step 3, Following procedure is adopted:

(iii) Now tick mark all the rows that are not already marked and that have assignment in the marked columns.

(iv) All the steps i.e. (4(i), 4(ii), 4(iii) are repeated until no more rows or columns can be marked.

(v) Now draw straight lines which pass through all the un marked rows and marked columns. It can also be noticed that in an n x n matrix, always less than ‘n’ lines will cover all the zeros if there is no solution among them.

5. In step 4, if the number of lines drawn are equal to n or the number of rows, then it is the optimum solution if not, then go to step 6.

6. Select the smallest element among all the uncovered elements. Now, this element is subtracted from all the uncovered elements and added to the element which lies at the intersection of two lines. This is the matrix for fresh assignments.

7. Repeat the procedure from step (3) until the number of assignments becomes equal to the number of rows or number of columns.

Related Articles:

• Two Phase Methods of Problem Solving in Linear Programming: First and Second Phase
• Linear Programming: Applications, Definitions and Problems

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The Assignment Method: Definition, Applications, and Implementation Strategies

Last updated 03/15/2024 by

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Understanding the assignment method

Optimized resource utilization, enhanced production efficiency, maximized profitability, applications of the assignment method, workforce allocation, production planning, sales territory management, resource budgeting.

• Optimizes resource utilization
• Enhances production efficiency
• Maximizes profitability
• Requires thorough analysis of past performance and market conditions
• Potential for misallocation of resources if not executed properly

Frequently asked questions

How does the assignment method differ from other resource allocation methods, what factors should organizations consider when implementing the assignment method, can the assignment method be applied to non-profit organizations or public sector agencies, what role does technology play in implementing the assignment method, are there any ethical considerations associated with the assignment method, key takeaways.

• The assignment method optimizes resource allocation to enhance efficiency and profitability.
• Applications include workforce allocation, production planning, sales territory management, and resource budgeting.
• Effective implementation requires thorough analysis of past performance and market conditions.
• Strategic allocation of resources can drive overall performance and revenue growth.

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Linear assignment problem: Understanding the core of assignment method

1. introduction to the linear assignment problem, 2. the basics of assignment method, 3. formulating the linear assignment problem, 4. solving the linear assignment problem using hungarian algorithm, 5. understanding the optimality conditions in assignment method, 6. applications of linear assignment problem in real life, 7. extensions and variations of the assignment method, 8. challenges and limitations of the linear assignment problem, 9. harnessing the power of assignment method for optimization.

The Linear Assignment Problem is a fundamental concept in the field of optimization. It is a mathematical formulation used to solve the problem of assigning a set of jobs to a set of workers, where each worker is capable of doing only one job at a time. This problem arises in many real-world applications , such as scheduling tasks in a manufacturing plant, assigning students to courses, and routing vehicles to destinations. The goal of the Linear Assignment Problem is to find the optimal assignment that satisfies all constraints and minimizes the total cost of the assignments.

Here are some in-depth insights into the Linear Assignment Problem:

1. The Linear Assignment Problem can be represented using a matrix. The rows of the matrix represent the workers, and the columns represent the jobs. Each cell in the matrix represents the cost of assigning a particular job to a particular worker. The problem is to find a set of assignments that minimizes the total cost.

2. The Hungarian Algorithm is an efficient algorithm used to solve the Linear Assignment Problem. It is based on the principle of reducing the problem to a series of smaller sub-problems, each of which can be solved easily. The algorithm has a time complexity of O(n^3), where n is the number of workers or jobs.

3. The Linear Assignment Problem can be extended to the case where each worker can do more than one job. This is known as the Generalized Assignment Problem. In this case, each worker has a capacity, and each job has a requirement. The goal is to assign the jobs to the workers in a way that satisfies the capacity and requirement constraints and minimizes the total cost.

4. The Linear Assignment Problem has many practical applications. For example, in the field of computer vision, it is used to solve the problem of object recognition. In this case, each object is represented by a set of features, and each feature is assigned a weight based on its importance. The goal is to assign the features to the objects in a way that maximizes the total weight.

The Linear Assignment Problem is a powerful tool for solving the problem of assigning jobs to workers. It has many practical applications and can be solved efficiently using the Hungarian Algorithm.

Introduction to the Linear Assignment Problem - Linear assignment problem: Understanding the core of assignment method

In this section, we will delve into the fundamentals of the assignment method, a powerful tool used to solve linear assignment problems. Understanding the core concepts behind this method is crucial for effectively tackling such problems and optimizing resource allocation . From different perspectives, let's explore the intricacies of the assignment method and how it can be applied in various scenarios.

1. Definition of Assignment Method:

At its core, the assignment method is a mathematical technique used to determine the optimal assignment of a set of tasks to a set of resources. It aims to minimize the total cost or maximize the total benefit of the assigned tasks. The method assigns each task to a single resource, ensuring that all tasks are completed and each resource is utilized optimally.

2. Formulating the Assignment Problem:

The assignment problem can be represented as a matrix, where the rows represent the tasks and the columns represent the resources. Each element in the matrix represents the cost or benefit associated with assigning a particular task to a specific resource. The goal is to find the assignment that minimizes the total cost or maximizes the total benefit.

For example, consider a scenario where a company needs to assign four employees (A, B, C, D) to four projects (X, Y, Z, W). The matrix would represent the costs or benefits associated with each assignment, such as A-X, B-Y, C-Z, and D-W.

3. Solution Approaches:

The assignment problem can be solved using different approaches, including the Hungarian method, the auction algorithm, or the shortest path algorithm. Each method has its own advantages and is suitable for specific problem types.

4. The Hungarian Method:

The Hungarian method is one of the most commonly used techniques to solve the assignment problem. It involves finding a series of augmenting paths in the assignment matrix until an optimal assignment is achieved. This method guarantees an optimal solution and has a time complexity of O(n^3), making it efficient for small to medium-sized problems.

For instance, using the Hungarian method, we can find the optimal assignment for the previously mentioned scenario. By iteratively identifying augmenting paths and adjusting the assignment matrix, we can determine the best employee-project assignments that minimize the overall cost or maximize the total benefit.

5. Applications of the Assignment Method:

The assignment method finds applications in various fields, such as project management, workforce scheduling, transportation logistics, and resource allocation. It allows organizations to optimize their operations by efficiently assigning tasks to available resources, minimizing costs, and maximizing productivity.

For example, a courier company can utilize the assignment method to determine the most efficient routes for its delivery drivers, considering factors like distance, traffic conditions, and delivery deadlines.

In summary, the assignment method is a powerful mathematical technique used to solve linear assignment problems. By formulating the problem as a matrix and applying various solution approaches like the Hungarian method, organizations can optimize their resource allocation and maximize efficiency. The versatility of the assignment method makes it applicable in diverse fields, ensuring optimal task assignments and improved overall performance.

The Basics of Assignment Method - Linear assignment problem: Understanding the core of assignment method

When it comes to solving real-world optimization problems, the linear assignment problem (LAP) is a fundamental concept that plays a crucial role in various fields such as operations research, computer science, and economics. The LAP involves assigning a set of tasks to a set of agents in the most efficient manner possible, taking into consideration certain constraints and objectives. This problem can be represented mathematically as a bipartite graph, where one set of vertices represents the tasks and the other set represents the agents. Each edge between these sets represents the cost or benefit associated with assigning a particular task to a specific agent.

From an operational perspective, formulating the LAP requires careful consideration of several factors. Here are some key insights from different points of view:

1. Objective Function:

- The objective function defines what we aim to optimize in the LAP. It could be minimizing costs, maximizing benefits, or achieving a balance between the two.

- For example, consider a scenario where a company needs to assign delivery routes to its drivers . The objective might be to minimize the total distance traveled by all drivers.

2. Constraints:

- Constraints impose limitations on the assignment process. These can include restrictions on task-agent compatibility, capacity constraints for agents, or exclusivity requirements.

- For instance, if we have a group of students who need to be assigned to different projects based on their skills and preferences, we must ensure that each student is assigned to only one project.

3. cost or Benefit matrix :

- To formulate the LAP mathematically, we need to construct a cost or benefit matrix that captures the relationship between tasks and agents.

- In our previous example of delivery route assignments, this matrix would contain distances between different locations and drivers.

4. Decision Variables:

- Decision variables represent the assignment decisions made during optimization. They indicate whether a task is assigned to an agent or not.

- In the delivery route assignment scenario, each decision variable could represent whether a driver is assigned to a specific route or not.

5. Mathematical Model:

- By combining the objective function, constraints, cost/benefit matrix, and decision variables, we can create a mathematical model that represents the LAP.

- This model can then be solved using various optimization techniques such as the Hungarian algorithm or linear programming.

In summary, formulating the Linear Assignment Problem involves defining an objective function, considering relevant constraints, constructing a cost or benefit matrix, determining decision variables, and creating

Formulating the Linear Assignment Problem - Linear assignment problem: Understanding the core of assignment method

The Hungarian algorithm is a combinatorial optimization technique that is commonly used to solve the linear assignment problem. It was first introduced by two Hungarian mathematicians, Kuhn and Munkres, in 1955. The algorithm is known for its speed and efficiency in solving large-scale assignment problems. It works by iteratively improving the assignment until an optimal solution is found. The algorithm has been extensively studied and applied in various fields, such as computer science, operations research, and engineering.

Here are some key insights into how the Hungarian algorithm works:

1. The Hungarian algorithm starts by creating a matrix of costs, where each row represents a worker and each column represents a task. The cost of assigning each worker to each task is listed in the matrix.

2. The algorithm then uses a series of steps to find the optimal assignment. It starts by finding the smallest element in each row and subtracting that element from every element in that row. It then finds the smallest element in each column and subtracts that element from every element in that column.

3. The algorithm then identifies the smallest uncovered element in the matrix and assigns the corresponding worker to the corresponding task. If there is a tie for the smallest uncovered element, the algorithm randomly chooses one of the tied elements to assign.

4. The algorithm continues to iteratively improve the assignment by repeating the steps above until an optimal solution is found.

5. One important aspect of the Hungarian algorithm is that it guarantees to find the optimal solution in a finite number of steps. This is because the algorithm reduces the number of uncovered elements in the matrix by at least one in each iteration.

6. The Hungarian algorithm can also handle cases where the number of workers is not equal to the number of tasks. In these cases, the algorithm adds dummy tasks or workers to the matrix to make it square.

7. Let's consider an example to illustrate how the Hungarian algorithm works. Suppose we have three workers and three tasks, and the costs of assigning each worker to each task are given in the following matrix:

Task 1 Task 2 Task 3

The algorithm starts by subtracting the smallest element in each row from every element in that row, and the smallest element in each column from every element in that column. The resulting matrix is:

The algorithm then assigns W1 to Task 1, W2 to Task 3, and W3 to Task 2, resulting in a total cost of 5+0+4=9. This is the optimal solution to the assignment problem.

Overall, the Hungarian algorithm provides an efficient and effective method for solving the linear assignment problem. Its ability to handle large-scale problems and guarantee an optimal solution makes it a valuable tool for a wide range of applications .

Solving the Linear Assignment Problem using Hungarian Algorithm - Linear assignment problem: Understanding the core of assignment method

Understanding the optimality conditions in the assignment method is crucial for solving the linear assignment problem effectively. By comprehending these conditions, we can gain valuable insights into how the assignment method works and why it produces optimal solutions. In this section, we will delve into the optimality conditions from various perspectives, exploring their significance and implications.

1. Objective Function: The objective function in the assignment method aims to minimize or maximize a certain criterion, such as cost or profit. For example, in a transportation problem where the goal is to minimize total transportation costs, the objective function would be to minimize the sum of costs associated with assigned tasks. Understanding this condition helps us grasp the underlying purpose of the assignment method and its alignment with specific optimization goals.

2. Feasibility: Feasibility refers to satisfying all constraints imposed by the problem at hand. In the context of the assignment method, feasibility entails ensuring that each task is assigned to exactly one agent or resource, and each agent or resource is assigned to exactly one task. Violating this condition would result in an infeasible solution. For instance, if two agents are assigned to the same task, it would violate feasibility. Recognizing this condition aids in identifying potential errors or inconsistencies in assignments.

3. Optimality: The optimality condition determines when a solution obtained through the assignment method is considered optimal. It states that an assignment is optimal if there is no other feasible assignment that yields a better objective function value. In other words, no reassignment can improve the overall criterion being optimized. This condition ensures that we have found the best possible solution within the given constraints and objectives.

4. Complementary Slackness: Complementary slackness is a fundamental concept in linear programming and plays a significant role in understanding optimality conditions in the assignment method. It states that for every pair of decision variables (assignment variables) and constraint equations (feasibility constraints), either both are zero or both have positive values. This condition implies that if a task is assigned to an agent, the corresponding constraint equation must be satisfied, and vice versa. By considering complementary slackness, we can verify the optimality of assignments and ensure that no unutilized resources or unassigned tasks exist.

To illustrate these optimality conditions, let's consider a scenario where a company needs to assign four employees (A, B, C, D) to four different projects (P1, P2, P3, P4). The objective is to minimize the total cost associated with each assignment.

Understanding the Optimality Conditions in Assignment Method - Linear assignment problem: Understanding the core of assignment method

The linear assignment problem, a fundamental concept in optimization theory, finds its applications in various real-life scenarios . From resource allocation to scheduling and matching problems, the linear assignment problem offers a powerful framework for solving complex decision-making tasks efficiently. By understanding the core principles of the assignment method, we can gain valuable insights into how this mathematical technique is applied in different fields.

1. Resource Allocation: One of the most common applications of the linear assignment problem is in resource allocation. For example, in transportation logistics, it can be used to optimize the assignment of vehicles to delivery routes, ensuring efficient utilization of resources while minimizing costs. Similarly, in project management, it can help allocate tasks to team members based on their skills and availability, maximizing productivity.

2. Workforce Scheduling: The linear assignment problem also finds extensive use in employee scheduling. For instance, in healthcare settings such as hospitals or clinics, it can be employed to assign nurses or doctors to shifts based on their expertise and workload requirements. By optimizing these assignments, organizations can ensure adequate coverage while minimizing overtime and maintaining employee satisfaction .

3. Matching Problems: Another area where the linear assignment problem proves invaluable is in matching problems. This includes applications like matching medical students to residency programs or assigning students to schools based on their preferences and qualifications. By formulating these problems as linear assignment problems, optimal matches can be determined efficiently, taking into account various constraints and preferences.

4. Facility Location: The linear assignment problem can also aid in determining optimal facility locations. For instance, in retail planning, it can be used to assign customers to nearby stores based on factors like distance and demand patterns. By solving this optimization problem, businesses can strategically position their facilities to maximize customer reach and minimize transportation costs .

5. Data Association: In computer vision and pattern recognition tasks such as object tracking or image registration, the linear assignment problem plays a crucial role in data association. It helps establish correspondences between observed data and known models, enabling accurate tracking or alignment. By solving the assignment problem, the most likely associations can be determined, leading to improved performance in these applications.

6. Network Flow Optimization: The linear assignment problem can also be applied to optimize network flows. For example, in telecommunications, it can help allocate bandwidth to different users or routes based on their demands and available resources. By solving this optimization problem, network operators can ensure efficient utilization of network capacity while meeting user requirements.

These examples highlight the versatility and practicality of the linear assignment problem in real-life scenarios. By

Applications of Linear Assignment Problem in Real Life - Linear assignment problem: Understanding the core of assignment method

When it comes to the assignment method, there are several extensions and variations that can be applied. These extensions and variations add more complexity and flexibility to the method, allowing it to solve more complicated problems. They can also provide additional insights into the problem and help to optimize the assignment process. From different point of views, these extensions and variations can be used to model a wide range of scenarios, such as the assignment of personnel to tasks, the allocation of resources to projects, and the assignment of frequencies to radio channels. Some of the most common extensions and variations of the assignment method are listed below.

1. Multiple Assignments: This extension allows more than one assignment to be made to each agent or task. For example, a teacher may be assigned to teach multiple classes, or a delivery truck may be assigned to make multiple deliveries.

2. Partial Assignments: This variation allows for partial assignments to be made, where only a portion of the agent or task's capacity is utilized. For instance, an employee may only work part-time, or a machine may only be used for a certain number of hours per day.

3. Cost Matrices with Unequal Elements: This variation allows for the cost matrix to have unequal elements, where the cost of assigning one agent to a task may be different from the cost of assigning another agent to the same task. This can be particularly useful when dealing with different skill levels or availability of agents.

4. Non-Rectangular Cost Matrices: This variation allows for the cost matrix to have a non-rectangular shape, where the number of agents and tasks are not equal. For example, in a transportation problem, the number of supply and demand points may be different.

5. Multiple Objectives: This extension allows for multiple objectives to be considered simultaneously, such as minimizing cost and maximizing efficiency. This can be achieved through the use of multi-objective optimization techniques.

The extensions and variations of the assignment method provide a powerful tool for solving complex assignment problems in a wide range of scenarios. By adding more complexity and flexibility to the method, these extensions and variations can help to optimize the assignment process and provide additional insights into the problem.

Extensions and Variations of the Assignment Method - Linear assignment problem: Understanding the core of assignment method

The linear assignment problem is a fundamental concept in optimization theory that involves assigning a set of resources to a set of tasks, with the objective of minimizing the total cost or maximizing the total benefit. While the assignment method provides an efficient solution for many real-world problems , it also comes with its own set of challenges and limitations. Understanding these challenges is crucial for effectively applying the assignment method and obtaining optimal solutions.

1. Complexity: The linear assignment problem can become computationally complex as the number of resources and tasks increases. The time required to solve the problem grows exponentially, making it impractical for large-scale applications . For example, consider a scenario where there are 100 resources and 100 tasks. The number of possible assignments to evaluate would be 100 factorial (100!), which is an astronomically large number.

2. Non-linearity: Despite its name, the linear assignment problem can involve non-linear relationships between resources and tasks. This occurs when the cost or benefit associated with an assignment depends on factors other than just the resource-task pair itself. For instance, if assigning a particular resource to a task affects the performance of other resources or tasks, the problem becomes more complex and may require additional considerations.

3. Limited flexibility: The assignment method assumes that each resource can only be assigned to one task and vice versa. However, in some scenarios, allowing multiple assignments or partial assignments may lead to better overall outcomes. For example, in workforce scheduling, it may be beneficial to assign multiple employees to a single task to ensure timely completion or handle unexpected events.

4. Uncertainty and dynamic environments: The linear assignment problem assumes that all information regarding costs, benefits, and resource/task characteristics is known with certainty at the time of assignment. However, in real-world situations, such information may be uncertain or subject to change over time. This introduces additional complexity as decisions need to be made under uncertainty or adaptively in dynamic environments.

5. Lack of consideration for qualitative factors: The assignment method primarily focuses on quantitative factors such as costs or benefits. It may not adequately consider qualitative factors, such as skill levels, preferences, or compatibility between resources and tasks. Ignoring these qualitative aspects can lead to suboptimal assignments that do not fully utilize the capabilities or preferences of resources.

6. Scalability: As the number of resources and tasks increases, the assignment problem becomes more challenging to solve optimally. While approximation algorithms exist to handle large-scale problems, they may sacrifice optimality for computational efficiency. Balancing scalability and solution

Challenges and Limitations of the Linear Assignment Problem - Linear assignment problem: Understanding the core of assignment method

The assignment method is a powerful tool for solving optimization problems , particularly the linear assignment problem. Throughout this blog, we have explored the core concepts and techniques behind the assignment method, shedding light on its potential applications and benefits. In this concluding section, we will delve deeper into the significance of harnessing the power of the assignment method for optimization.

1. Versatility: One of the key advantages of the assignment method is its versatility in tackling a wide range of optimization problems. Whether it is assigning tasks to workers, matching students to schools, or allocating resources to projects, the assignment method can be applied to various scenarios. By formulating these problems as linear assignment problems, we can leverage the efficiency and effectiveness of the assignment method to find optimal solutions.

For example, consider a company that needs to assign a set of tasks to its employees based on their skills and availability. By using the assignment method, the company can optimize task assignments by considering factors such as skill compatibility and workload distribution. This not only ensures efficient resource utilization but also enhances overall productivity.

2. Complexity Reduction: The assignment method simplifies complex optimization problems by transforming them into linear assignment problems. This reduction in complexity allows us to apply well-established algorithms and techniques specifically designed for linear assignment problems. As a result, we can efficiently solve large-scale optimization problems that would otherwise be computationally challenging or time-consuming.

For instance, imagine a logistics company that needs to determine the most cost-effective routes for delivering goods to multiple destinations while considering factors like distance, traffic conditions, and delivery deadlines. By formulating this problem as a linear assignment problem using the assignment method , the company can quickly find optimal routes that minimize costs and maximize customer satisfaction.

3. Optimality Guarantee: The assignment method guarantees finding an optimal solution for linear assignment problems. This means that once we have formulated our problem correctly and applied the appropriate algorithm, we can be confident that the solution obtained is indeed the best possible solution. This optimality guarantee is particularly valuable in situations where making suboptimal decisions can have significant consequences.

For example, in healthcare resource allocation, the assignment method can be used to optimize the assignment of medical staff to different departments or shifts. By considering factors such as expertise, workload, and patient needs, the assignment method ensures that the allocation is optimal, leading to improved patient care and overall operational efficiency.

4. Scalability: The assignment method exhibits excellent scalability, allowing us to handle optimization problems with a large number of variables and constraints. This scalability is crucial in

Harnessing the Power of Assignment Method for Optimization - Linear assignment problem: Understanding the core of assignment method

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Assignment Problem: Linear Programming

The assignment problem is a special type of transportation problem , where the objective is to minimize the cost or time of completing a number of jobs by a number of persons.

In other words, when the problem involves the allocation of n different facilities to n different tasks, it is often termed as an assignment problem.

The model's primary usefulness is for planning. The assignment problem also encompasses an important sub-class of so-called shortest- (or longest-) route models. The assignment model is useful in solving problems such as, assignment of machines to jobs, assignment of salesmen to sales territories, travelling salesman problem, etc.

It may be noted that with n facilities and n jobs, there are n! possible assignments. One way of finding an optimal assignment is to write all the n! possible arrangements, evaluate their total cost, and select the assignment with minimum cost. But, due to heavy computational burden this method is not suitable. This chapter concentrates on an efficient method for solving assignment problems that was developed by a Hungarian mathematician D.Konig.

"A mathematician is a device for turning coffee into theorems." -Paul Erdos

Formulation of an assignment problem

Suppose a company has n persons of different capacities available for performing each different job in the concern, and there are the same number of jobs of different types. One person can be given one and only one job. The objective of this assignment problem is to assign n persons to n jobs, so as to minimize the total assignment cost. The cost matrix for this problem is given below:

The structure of an assignment problem is identical to that of a transportation problem.

To formulate the assignment problem in mathematical programming terms , we define the activity variables as

for i = 1, 2, ..., n and j = 1, 2, ..., n

In the above table, c ij is the cost of performing jth job by ith worker.

Generalized Form of an Assignment Problem

The optimization model is

Minimize c 11 x 11 + c 12 x 12 + ------- + c nn x nn

subject to x i1 + x i2 +..........+ x in = 1          i = 1, 2,......., n x 1j + x 2j +..........+ x nj = 1          j = 1, 2,......., n

x ij = 0 or 1

In Σ Sigma notation

x ij = 0 or 1 for all i and j

An assignment problem can be solved by transportation methods, but due to high degree of degeneracy the usual computational techniques of a transportation problem become very inefficient. Therefore, a special method is available for solving such type of problems in a more efficient way.

Assumptions in Assignment Problem

• Number of jobs is equal to the number of machines or persons.
• Each man or machine is assigned only one job.
• Each man or machine is independently capable of handling any job to be done.
• Assigning criteria is clearly specified (minimizing cost or maximizing profit).

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What is an Assignment Method?

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Assignment method.

In accounting and finance, the assignment method is a technique used for allocating or assigning resources, costs, or tasks among different departments, employees, or projects. The assignment method aims to optimize resource allocation to achieve maximum efficiency, cost savings, or other desired outcomes. It is often used in cost accounting, project management, and operations research.

For example, in cost accounting , the assignment method can be used to allocate indirect costs (such as overhead) to various cost centers or cost objects based on certain allocation criteria, like the proportion of direct labor hours or machine hours. This helps in determining the total cost of each product or service and aids in decision-making related to pricing, production levels, or resource allocation.

Another example is in project management, where the assignment method can be used to allocate tasks to team members based on their skills, availability, or other relevant factors. This helps in efficient task distribution, ensuring timely project completion, and optimal utilization of resources.

In summary, the assignment method is a technique used for allocating resources, costs, or tasks to optimize efficiency and achieve desired outcomes.

Example of an Assignment Method

Let’s take an example from cost accounting , specifically in a manufacturing company.

Suppose a manufacturing company produces three products: Product A, Product B, and Product C. The company has a total indirect overhead cost of $90,000. The indirect overhead cost needs to be allocated to each product based on machine hours used in production.

The machine hours used for each product are as follows:

• Product A: 600 hours
• Product B: 900 hours
• Product C: 1,500 hours

Total machine hours used: 3,000 hours (600 + 900 + 1,500)

Now, we will use the assignment method to allocate the indirect overhead costs based on the proportion of machine hours used for each product.

• Calculate the overhead rate per machine hour: \(\text{Overhead rate} = \frac{\text{Total overhead cost}}{\text{Total machine hours}} \) \(\text{Overhead rate} = \frac{90,000}{3,000 \text{ hours}} \) Overhead rate = $30 per machine hour
• Allocate the overhead cost to each product based on the machine hours used:
• Product A: 600 hours * $30 = $18,000
• Product B: 900 hours * $30 = $27,000
• Product C: 1,500 hours * $30 = $45,000

So, using the assignment method, the allocated overhead costs for Product A, Product B, and Product C are $18,000, $27,000, and $45,000, respectively. This allocation helps the company understand the total cost of producing each product and make informed decisions about pricing, production levels, and resource allocation.

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Assignment Method

What is assignment method.

Assignment method is a way of allocating organizational resources where a resource is assigned to a particular task. The resource would be monetary, personnel, technological or another type of resource. The assignment method is used to determine what resources are assigned to which department, machine, or center of operation in the production process. This method is used to allocate the proper number of employees to a machine or task, and the number of jobs that a given machine or factory can produce. The idea is to assign resources in such a way that profits are maximized.

BREAKING DOWN Assignment Method

The assignment method is a way of allocating organizational resources to projects and tasks. The assignment method can be used for many other purposes besides production allocations. It can be employed to assign the number of salespersons to a given territory or territories. It can also be used to match bidders to contracts and assign other relevant components of business to each other. Regardless of the resource being allocated or the task to be accomplished, the idea is to assign resources in such a way that maximizes the amount of profit produced by the task or project.

Related Terms

Related articles, how do the equity method and proportional consolidation method differ, what are the main methods for calculating business costs, how to use the bayesian method of financial forecasting, cost accounting method: advantages and disadvantages, understanding methods and assumptions of depreciation, the differences between the installment method and percentage of completion method.

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WHAT IS ASSIGNMENT PROBLEM

Assignment Problem is a special type of linear programming problem where the objective is to minimise the cost or time of completing a number of jobs by a number of persons.

The assignment problem in the general form can be stated as follows:

“Given n facilities, n jobs and the effectiveness of each facility for each job, the problem is to assign each facility to one and only one job in such a way that the measure of effectiveness is optimised (Maximised or Minimised).”

Several problems of management has a structure identical with the assignment problem.

Example I A manager has four persons (i.e. facilities) available for four separate jobs (i.e. jobs) and the cost of assigning (i.e. effectiveness) each job to each ...

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Assignment methods in unified routing

• 3 contributors

The feature availability information is as follows.

Use assignment methods to determine how to assign work items. You can use the out-of-the-box assignment methods or build custom assignment rules by configuring the prioritization rules and assignment rulesets.

How auto assignment works

The auto-assignment process in unified routing matches incoming work items with the best-suited agents based on the configured assignment rules. This continuous process consists of multiple assignment cycles and a default block size of work items.

Each cycle picks up the top unassigned work items in the applicable default block size and attempts to match each work item with an appropriate agent. Work items that aren't assigned to agents because of unavailability of agents or right skill match wasn't found are routed back to the queue.

The next assignment cycle picks up the next block of the top-priority items that includes new work items.

When eligible agents aren't found for the work items, the assignment cycle keeps retrying to assign the top number of default sized block items as applicable for the channel.

For digital messaging and voice, the default block size is 100 work items of top priority.

For the records channel,

• The number of work items prioritized per queue are 10,000
• The number of work items processed for assignment are 2,000 by default

Cross-queue prioritization isn't available in unified routing.

For more information, see best practices to manage queues .

Types of assignment methods

The following assignment methods are available out of the box:

Highest capacity : Assigns a work item to an agent with the highest available capacity. This agent has the skills that are identified during the classification stage and presence that matches one of the allowed presences in the workstream. The work items are prioritized in the first-in, first-out manner—that is, the work item that was created first is assigned first. If more than one agent is available with the same capacity, the work item is assigned based on the round-robin order of the agents whose highest capacity is the same.

If you want to use skill-based routing and,

Set Default skill matching algorithm in the workstream as Exact Match , then the system filters agents using exact skill match, workstream’s presence, and capacity requirements, and orders the filtered agents by available capacity.

Set Default skill matching algorithm in the workstream as Closest Match , then the system filters agents based on the workstream's presence and capacity requirements and orders the filtered agents by closest match and not available capacity. More information: Closest match

If you need to distribute work fairly among agents, then you should consider switching to a round robin assignment strategy.

When you modify a rating model, the ongoing conversations or open work items that have skills with the rating model continue to have the existing rating. Sometimes, this might result in no agents who match the assignment criteria.

Advanced round robin : Assigns a work item to the agent who matches the criteria for skills, presence, and capacity. The initial order is based on when a user is added to the queue. Then, the order is updated based on assignments. Similar to how work items are assigned in the highest capacity method, in round robin assignment, the work items are prioritized in the first-in, first-out manner—that is, the work item that was created first is assigned first.

The ordering for round robin assignment is maintained queue wise. Some agents can be a part of multiple queues. Therefore, depending on the agent's last assignment timestamp in a queue, the agents might be assigned back-to-back or concurrent work items but from different queues.

In scenarios when multiple agents match the work item requirement, and there's a tie in the "order by", like, multiple matched agents with the same available capacity, the system resolves the assignment using round robin based on the earliest time of the last assignment.

For example, three agents, Lesa, Alicia, and Alan, are available with the coffee refund skill and can handle up to three chats at a time. Their last assignment time stamps are 10:30 AM, 10:35 AM, and 10:37 AM, respectively. A work item about a coffee refund arrives in the queue at 10:40 AM. With the order by set to "profile-based available capacity", all the agents at 10:40 AM have the same available capacity of 2 each. To break the tie between the agents, the system uses round robin. Therefore, the incoming chat is assigned to Lesa because her last assignment was the earliest at 10:30 AM. Later at 10:45 AM, if another coffee refund work item comes in, the system assigns it to Alicia. This is also based on the round robin order of assignment between Alicia and Alan because their available capacities are 2 each and Alicia had an earlier assignment than Alan at 10:35 AM.

Least active : Assigns a work item to the agent who has been least active among all the agents who match the required skills, presence, and capacity.

The assignment method uses "the time since last capacity is released for a voice call" and the wrap-up settings configured in the workstream to determine the least-active agent and route the next incoming call to them. For example, consider two agents in a queue. The first agent completes a call five minutes ago while the second agent has just completed their call. When a new call comes in, the system assigns it to the first agent who has finished their activity first.

Routing to the least-active agent assignment strategy helps in a balanced distribution of work items across agents, and results in higher agent efficiency and improved customer satisfaction.

You can also build a custom report to track an agent's "last capacity release time" and understand the assignment distribution across agents.

The least-active assignment method is available for the voice channel only and is the default selection when you create a voice queue.

This feature is intended to help customer service managers or supervisors enhance their team’s performance and improve customer satisfaction. This feature is not intended for use in making—and should not be used to make—decisions that affect the employment of an employee or group of employees, including compensation, rewards, seniority, or other rights or entitlements. Customers are solely responsible for using Dynamics 365, this feature, and any associated feature or service in compliance with all applicable laws, including laws relating to accessing individual employee analytics and monitoring, recording, and storing communications with end users. This also includes adequately notifying end users that their communications with agents may be monitored, recorded, or stored and, as required by applicable laws, obtaining consent from end users before using the feature with them. Customers are also encouraged to have a mechanism in place to inform their agents that their communications with end users may be monitored, recorded, or stored.

You can also create a custom assignment method to suit your business needs.

Create new : Lets you create and use your own rulesets and rules to configure priority, severity, and capacity for choosing the queues to which work items need to be routed. You can create the following rulesets:

• Prioritization rulesets : Lets you define the order in which the work items are assigned to agents when they're available to take more work.
• Assignment rulesets : Represent a set of conditions that are used to select agents and use an order by option to sort the matching agents.
• You must configure presence, capacity, and skill-matching rules in the custom assignment method because the default settings defined for the workstream won't be used in custom assignment method.
• The out-of-the-box assignment strategies don't consider the agent operating hours. You must write a custom assignment method by using the "is_working" operator in the rule definition.

Assignment cycle

Assignment cycle is the prioritization of work items, their selection, and their assignment to the best-suited agent based on the assignment rules. Unified routing optimizes the assignment cycles across the multiple queues in the organization for best performance.

The assignment cycle starts with one of the following triggers:

• Arrival of a new work item in the queue.
• Change to agent presence.
• Updates to agent capacity: If capacity is updated at runtime then change in capacity triggers assignment. If capacity is updated manually, the change doesn't trigger assignment.
• Addition of an agent to the queue.
• Periodic trigger every five minutes for record type of work item.

How prioritization rulesets work

A prioritization ruleset is an ordered list of prioritization rules. Every prioritization rule represents a priority bucket in the queue. In a prioritization rule, you can specify a set of conditions and order by attributes. During evaluation, the prioritization rules are run in the order they're listed. For the first prioritization rule, the work items in the queue that match its conditions are put in the same priority bucket. In the priority bucket, the items are further sorted by the order specified in the prioritization rule. The second rule runs on the rest of the items in the queue, to identify the next priority bucket, and sorts the bucket by the Order by attribute until all rules are evaluated.

You can create one prioritization ruleset only per queue.

As an example, consider the prioritization ruleset as seen in the following screenshot with four rules.

During any assignment cycle, this prioritization ruleset runs, and the rules within the ruleset run in the order they're listed.

The first rule, "High priority and premium," finds all work items in the queue where the associated case priority is "High" and the case category is "Premium". The system creates the top priority bucket with those work items and sorts them in the "First in and first out" manner as specified in the Order by attribute. The first work item to be assigned from the queue is the oldest item in this bucket.

The next priority bucket is the work items where case category is "Premium". The work items with "Premium" case category and "High" priority have already been put in top bucket as per the preceding rule, so this rule only considers other work items with "Premium" case priority. The Order by attribute in this case also is "First in and first out".

The next priority bucket consists of work items where case priority is high and they haven't been bucketed already. Here the work items are ordered by their "First Response By" field in the ascending order—that is, the work items that require the first response at the earliest are prioritized first.

Some important points about prioritization rules are as follows:

• You can create only one prioritization ruleset per queue.
• Prioritization rules are run during every assignment cycle. If you change any attributes of the work item, such as the priority of the case, that change is considered during the next assignment cycle.
• By default, the queue is sorted on a "first in and first out" manner. If you don't create a prioritization rule, then the oldest work item is assigned first.
• In normal scenarios, when a sufficient number of agents are available to take up the work items, the processing period is a couple of seconds only. The agents are assigned work items in the priority order. However, if work items pile up because of fewer eligible agents, and then an agent becomes available during the processing period, the agent is offered the next work item according to the priority order. This strategy might create a perception that the highest priority item wasn't assigned; especially after some top-priority items are attempted for assignment and yet remain in the queue.
• The work items that don't match the criteria of any of the prioritization rulesets are kept in the last priority bucket, and are ordered by "first in first out".
• Prioritization rules are skipped for affinity work items and such work items is assigned before other work items in the queue. For information about affinity, go to Agent affinity .

How assignment rulesets work

The assignment ruleset is an ordered list of assignment rules. Each assignment rule represents a set of conditions that is used to determine the agents to select and an order-by field to sort the matching agents. At runtime, the assignment rule with the top order is evaluated first. The agents are matched as per the conditions specified in the rule. If more than one matching agent exists, they're sorted by the order by field, and the top agent is assigned the work. If no agents are matched, then the next assignment rule in the ruleset is evaluated. This method can be thought of as a gradual relaxation of constraints in the assignment, such that first, the strictest criteria are applied, and then the conditions are reduced so that the best agent is found. If no matching agents are found, then the work item remains in the queue.

In the assignment rule, the system user attributes are matched with the requirement of the work item. When you select static match, the condition is formed on the System User entity attribute and static values. When you select dynamic match, the conditions on the left are based on the system user root entity and the conditions on the right are based on the conversation root entity. You can drill down to two levels on the conversation root entity to form the rule conditions. An assignment rule with the dynamic match and static match is as follows.

Components of an assignment rule

The assignment rules are composed of the following items:

Order : Specifies the order in which the assignment rule is evaluated in a ruleset. The lower-order rules are run first. If any rule results in matching a user, then the next set of rules isn't evaluated.

Name : The unique rule name.

Condition : The expressions that are evaluated to match the users with the attributes of incoming work. The conditions have three parts:

User attribute : Properties of the users that can be used for comparing the user with the incoming work. The user attributes can be one of the following:

• Select attributes on the System User table.
• Presence Status : Maintained by the unified routing service based on user workloads and manual selection.
• Capacity : Maintained by the unified routing service based on user workloads and manual selection.
• User skills : Represents the skills associated with the user that can be used for doing skill-based assignment.
• Calendar Schedule : Schedule of the user as represented in the user service scheduling calendars.
• Bot attributes : Can be used only when you have configured bots as users and want to do some comparisons on them.

Operators : Define the comparison relationship between the User attribute and incoming work item attributes.

Unified routing filters the attribute-specific operators for you to choose from. Some special operators that are available for the attribute types are as follows.

Value : The user attributes are compared against this value to find the right agent. The value can be static, such as Address 1: County equals "USA". The value can also be dynamic, so that you can compare the user attribute dynamically with the values on the work item. In dynamic values, you can select any attribute on the work item or related records. For example, the following condition finds users whose country is the same as that of the customer associated with the case.

For some operators, values aren't required. They can be conditions, such as "Contains data," "Does not contain data," and "Calendar schedule: is working."

For user skills, the values are predefined for the operators. More information: Set up skill-based routing

Order by : If multiple agents match the conditions in a rule, you can use the "Order by" clause to find the best-suited one. You can specify the following order by clauses:

Ordering Attributes :

• Least active : Is available for voice queues only. The work item is routed to the agent who is least active among all the agents who match skills, presence, and capacity. For more information, see the Types of assignment methods section.
• Round robin
• Unit-based available capacity
• Profile-based available capacity
• Proficiency
• Skill count

User Attributes : These attributes are defined on the system user entity.

A sample assignment rule is explained in the following scenario with a screenshot.

The first condition specifies the "user skills" on which the operator is an exact match. Then the user attributes are evaluated. The different user attributes are specified with operators, and values for each attribute, such as the Presence status attribute, should be equal to "Available" or "Busy". On the right of the operator, you can specify the value that you want the attribute to be matched against. The values can be "static," such as "presence status equals Available or Busy". If you specify "dynamic," the condition is matched at runtime based on the expression you specify. For example, if you specify "Preferred Customer Type Equals Conversation.Contact.Membership Level," the "preferred customer type" of every agent is matched against the dynamically calculated membership level of the customer associated with the chat.

Dynamic match reduces the effort of having to write and maintain multiple static rules for each permutation and combination of the possible value.

Limits on offering a work item repeatedly to an agent

When agents are offered a work item through automatic assignment, they typically can accept or decline. Both rejection and time out of the notification is considered as a decline. An agent who declines the same work item thrice won't be considered for further auto assignment for the specific work item. The system tries to offer the declined work item to other agents in the queue if they're eligible.

For example, agent Serena Davis rejects a chat from customer Ana Bowman twice and the assignment notification times out in the third attempt. The system considers it as three declines and auto assignment won't offer the same chat to Serena Davis again. But the system offers the chat from Ana Bowman to other eligible agents. Also, Serena Davis is considered for other incoming conversations except the declined chat from Ana Bowman.

If all matching agents decline the work item because agent availability is low or the work requires a very specific skill and proficiency, the work remains in the queue. Similarly, if 100 agents decline a particular work item, auto assignment won't consider the work item in further assignment cycles. It can be manually assigned by supervisors or can be picked up by agents including those who rejected it.

You can update the default limit of three declines to a value between one and five based on your org requirement. The limit is applicable to all channels in the org.

You can make an OData call as follows to check the limit for your organization.

<org-url>/api/data/v9.0/msdyn_omnichannelconfigurations?$select=msdyn_number_of_declines_allowed

If this OData call returns the null value, it means that the decline limit is set to a default value of 3.

You can update the OData call as follows to modify the limit.

var data = { "msdyn_number_of_declines_allowed": 3 } // update the record Xrm.WebApi.updateRecord("msdyn_omnichannelconfiguration", "d4d91600-6f21-467b-81fe-6757a2791fa1", data).then( function success(result) { console.log("Omnichannel Configuration updated"); // perform operations on record update }, function (error) { console.log(error.message); // handle error conditions } );

Related information

Configure assignment methods and rules FAQ about unified routing in Customer Service, Omnichannel for Customer Service Diagnostics for unified routing Create workstreams Create queues Set up unified routing for records Set up skill-based routing for unified routing

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Methodology

• Random Assignment in Experiments | Introduction & Examples

Random Assignment in Experiments | Introduction & Examples

Published on March 8, 2021 by Pritha Bhandari . Revised on June 22, 2023.

In experimental research, random assignment is a way of placing participants from your sample into different treatment groups using randomization.

With simple random assignment, every member of the sample has a known or equal chance of being placed in a control group or an experimental group. Studies that use simple random assignment are also called completely randomized designs .

Random assignment is a key part of experimental design . It helps you ensure that all groups are comparable at the start of a study: any differences between them are due to random factors, not research biases like sampling bias or selection bias .

Table of contents

Why does random assignment matter, random sampling vs random assignment, how do you use random assignment, when is random assignment not used, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about random assignment.

Random assignment is an important part of control in experimental research, because it helps strengthen the internal validity of an experiment and avoid biases.

In experiments, researchers manipulate an independent variable to assess its effect on a dependent variable, while controlling for other variables. To do so, they often use different levels of an independent variable for different groups of participants.

This is called a between-groups or independent measures design.

You use three groups of participants that are each given a different level of the independent variable:

• a control group that’s given a placebo (no dosage, to control for a placebo effect ),
• an experimental group that’s given a low dosage,
• a second experimental group that’s given a high dosage.

Random assignment to helps you make sure that the treatment groups don’t differ in systematic ways at the start of the experiment, as this can seriously affect (and even invalidate) your work.

If you don’t use random assignment, you may not be able to rule out alternative explanations for your results.

• participants recruited from cafes are placed in the control group ,
• participants recruited from local community centers are placed in the low dosage experimental group,
• participants recruited from gyms are placed in the high dosage group.

With this type of assignment, it’s hard to tell whether the participant characteristics are the same across all groups at the start of the study. Gym-users may tend to engage in more healthy behaviors than people who frequent cafes or community centers, and this would introduce a healthy user bias in your study.

Although random assignment helps even out baseline differences between groups, it doesn’t always make them completely equivalent. There may still be extraneous variables that differ between groups, and there will always be some group differences that arise from chance.

Most of the time, the random variation between groups is low, and, therefore, it’s acceptable for further analysis. This is especially true when you have a large sample. In general, you should always use random assignment in experiments when it is ethically possible and makes sense for your study topic.

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Random sampling and random assignment are both important concepts in research, but it’s important to understand the difference between them.

Random sampling (also called probability sampling or random selection) is a way of selecting members of a population to be included in your study. In contrast, random assignment is a way of sorting the sample participants into control and experimental groups.

While random sampling is used in many types of studies, random assignment is only used in between-subjects experimental designs.

Some studies use both random sampling and random assignment, while others use only one or the other.

Random sampling enhances the external validity or generalizability of your results, because it helps ensure that your sample is unbiased and representative of the whole population. This allows you to make stronger statistical inferences .

You use a simple random sample to collect data. Because you have access to the whole population (all employees), you can assign all 8000 employees a number and use a random number generator to select 300 employees. These 300 employees are your full sample.

Random assignment enhances the internal validity of the study, because it ensures that there are no systematic differences between the participants in each group. This helps you conclude that the outcomes can be attributed to the independent variable .

• a control group that receives no intervention.
• an experimental group that has a remote team-building intervention every week for a month.

You use random assignment to place participants into the control or experimental group. To do so, you take your list of participants and assign each participant a number. Again, you use a random number generator to place each participant in one of the two groups.

To use simple random assignment, you start by giving every member of the sample a unique number. Then, you can use computer programs or manual methods to randomly assign each participant to a group.

• Random number generator: Use a computer program to generate random numbers from the list for each group.
• Lottery method: Place all numbers individually in a hat or a bucket, and draw numbers at random for each group.
• Flip a coin: When you only have two groups, for each number on the list, flip a coin to decide if they’ll be in the control or the experimental group.
• Use a dice: When you have three groups, for each number on the list, roll a dice to decide which of the groups they will be in. For example, assume that rolling 1 or 2 lands them in a control group; 3 or 4 in an experimental group; and 5 or 6 in a second control or experimental group.

This type of random assignment is the most powerful method of placing participants in conditions, because each individual has an equal chance of being placed in any one of your treatment groups.

Random assignment in block designs

In more complicated experimental designs, random assignment is only used after participants are grouped into blocks based on some characteristic (e.g., test score or demographic variable). These groupings mean that you need a larger sample to achieve high statistical power .

For example, a randomized block design involves placing participants into blocks based on a shared characteristic (e.g., college students versus graduates), and then using random assignment within each block to assign participants to every treatment condition. This helps you assess whether the characteristic affects the outcomes of your treatment.

In an experimental matched design , you use blocking and then match up individual participants from each block based on specific characteristics. Within each matched pair or group, you randomly assign each participant to one of the conditions in the experiment and compare their outcomes.

Sometimes, it’s not relevant or ethical to use simple random assignment, so groups are assigned in a different way.

When comparing different groups

Sometimes, differences between participants are the main focus of a study, for example, when comparing men and women or people with and without health conditions. Participants are not randomly assigned to different groups, but instead assigned based on their characteristics.

In this type of study, the characteristic of interest (e.g., gender) is an independent variable, and the groups differ based on the different levels (e.g., men, women, etc.). All participants are tested the same way, and then their group-level outcomes are compared.

When it’s not ethically permissible

When studying unhealthy or dangerous behaviors, it’s not possible to use random assignment. For example, if you’re studying heavy drinkers and social drinkers, it’s unethical to randomly assign participants to one of the two groups and ask them to drink large amounts of alcohol for your experiment.

When you can’t assign participants to groups, you can also conduct a quasi-experimental study . In a quasi-experiment, you study the outcomes of pre-existing groups who receive treatments that you may not have any control over (e.g., heavy drinkers and social drinkers). These groups aren’t randomly assigned, but may be considered comparable when some other variables (e.g., age or socioeconomic status) are controlled for.

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If you want to know more about statistics , methodology , or research bias , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

• Student’s  t -distribution
• Normal distribution
• Null and Alternative Hypotheses
• Chi square tests
• Confidence interval
• Quartiles & Quantiles
• Cluster sampling
• Stratified sampling
• Data cleansing
• Reproducibility vs Replicability
• Peer review
• Prospective cohort study

Research bias

• Implicit bias
• Cognitive bias
• Placebo effect
• Hawthorne effect
• Hindsight bias
• Affect heuristic
• Social desirability bias

In experimental research, random assignment is a way of placing participants from your sample into different groups using randomization. With this method, every member of the sample has a known or equal chance of being placed in a control group or an experimental group.

Random selection, or random sampling , is a way of selecting members of a population for your study’s sample.

In contrast, random assignment is a way of sorting the sample into control and experimental groups.

Random sampling enhances the external validity or generalizability of your results, while random assignment improves the internal validity of your study.

Random assignment is used in experiments with a between-groups or independent measures design. In this research design, there’s usually a control group and one or more experimental groups. Random assignment helps ensure that the groups are comparable.

In general, you should always use random assignment in this type of experimental design when it is ethically possible and makes sense for your study topic.

To implement random assignment , assign a unique number to every member of your study’s sample .

Then, you can use a random number generator or a lottery method to randomly assign each number to a control or experimental group. You can also do so manually, by flipping a coin or rolling a dice to randomly assign participants to groups.

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Samar Education

Assignment method of teaching, assignment method.

Assignment method as the name suggests students are assigned some tasks-theoretical as well as practical nature for being performed at their parts in the school, at the workshop or laboratory, library or at their home. They are provided necessary guidance instruction and also the specific outlines for completing their assignments in time.

Assignment is a necessary part of the teaching and learning process, helping us measure whether our students have really learned what we want them to learn. While exams and quizzes are certainly favorite and useful methods of assessment, out of class assignments (written or otherwise) can offer similar insights into our students' learning. And just as creating a reliable test takes thoughtfulness and skill, so does creating meaningful and effective assignments.

Undoubtedly, many instructors have been on the receiving end of disappointing student work, left wondering what went wrong, and often, those problems can be remedied in the future by some simple fine-tuning of the original assignment. This paper will take a look at some important elements to consider when developing assignments, and offer some easy approaches to creating a valuable assessment experience for all involved.

Features of the Assignment Method

• More emphasis is given on practical work.
• In this method all aspects of the subject matter are included.
• The teacher has to provide adequate guidance.
• Students get used to doing work on their own.
• Each student works according to his capacity.
• Students develop the habit of fulfilling their responsibilities.

Importance of Assignments

• Homework acts as a motivator of the students. This motivates the student to make maximum use of the acquired knowledge.
• Homework also saves time as it eliminates the need to re-read the lesson in class.
• Homework gives students opportunities to express their ideas through self-activity.
• Apart from the school, the home environment is also necessary to make the knowledge permanent, otherwise the ignorant will be unable to remember the absorbed knowledge.
• Properly planned homework helps in guidance.
• Through homework, students have to write their own answers to the questions. They bring books on various subjects from the library to read at home. This develops the habits of self-study in them.

Types of assignment method

1. page-by-page assignment.

This type is sometimes called the textbook assignment. It designates the number of pages to be covered. Page-by-page assignment is unsatisfactory, but recent studies have revealed that this type is still widely used in the elementary grades.

2. Problem assignment

This type of assignment gets away from the basic textbook idea. It encourages the use of references and stimulates reflective thinking. In this type the problem to be solved is the prime consideration. Special directions and suggestions are important in this type of assignment.

3. Topical assignment

In this kind of assignment the topic to be developed is the prime consideration. This is also a form of textbook assignment which is often given in social and natural science subjects.

4. Project assignment

This is a special type of assignment which is best adapted to vocational courses, to natural science subjects, and in some measure to social science subjects and other content subjects. In this type of assignment a project is considered a unit.

5. Contract assignment

This form of assignment is extensively used in individualized types of instruction with the main purpose of adjusting the task to the ability and interest of the individual.

6. Unit assignment

This type is associated with the Mastery Plan and the Cycle Plan of instruction. It is best adapted to the subjects which are divided into units. The so-called flexible assignment is used with the unit assignment plan.

7. Cooperative or group assignment

Cooperative assignment is most frequently utilized in a socialized type of recitation, or in a project method of instruction. Assignment of this type stimulates pupils to do their own thinking and to organize their materials. Here pupils also participate in determining desirable objectives and in deciding what should be done to attain them. Cooperative assignment can be utilized to advantage in many high school classes.

8. Syllabus assignment

Syllabus assignment is often utilized in the college or university. In this type of assignment, questions and references are given to guide the students. Here again guide questions and other suggestions are given to insure attention to the important points of the lesson.

9. Drill assignment

It is the purpose of this assignment to strengthen the connections formed in the process of growth in mental motor skills. Memorizing a poem or mastery of facts or simple combination facts in Arithmetic are good examples of this type of assignment. Drill assignment, like other type of assignment, should be motivated.

Merits of Assignment Method

1. Development of useful habit:- Assignment method helps in imbibing useful habits like below:

• (a) A sense of responsibility of finishing the task in hand.
• (b) Habit of self study and confidence in one's abilities.
• (c) Self dependency in action and thought.

2. Recognition of individual differences:- The assignment are alloted to the students on the basis of their mental abilities, capacities, interests and aptitudes. They are also allowed to execute their assignments according to their own pace. The brighter ones have not to wait for the slow learners as they can undertake next higher assignments after finishing the one in hand.

3. Provides freedom to work:- There is no restrictions of time both in term of starting and finishing with the assignment. The duration for the execution of the assignment depends upon the mental and physical stamina of the pupil. They may go to the library or work in the laboratory. according to their convenience.

Demerits of Assignment Method

1. Strain on the teacher:- The teacher is expected to work hard in the method for preparing the assignments, assigning these to the students individually or in groups, guiding the students at the proper time in a proper way and evaluating their work.

2. Not suitable to all types of learners:- This method does not suit student of low intelligence and also those having average capacities. Similarly, it cannot also work with the students who are irresponsible or careless and thus cannot be relied to finish their assignment properly in a specified time.

3. Provides stimulation for cheating:- Assignment method may provide temptation or compulsion to a number of students for copying the answers of the questions and results of the experiments from the readily available source or note book of their classmates. If it happens, the very purpose of these assignments is completely lost.

Precautions in the Planning of Assignments

• The selection of homework should be done keeping in view the prior knowledge of the students.
• Homework should be inspirational.
• In the planning of homework, the interests and respects of the students should be taken care of. 4. Homework should be definite and clear.
• Homework should be based on the teaching formula of 'from simple to complex'.
• There should be mutual harmony in homework.
• There should be variety in homework.
• Homework should be useful.
• Buzz Group Teaching Method
• Demonstration Method of Teaching
• Discussion Method of Teaching
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Home » Assignment – Types, Examples and Writing Guide

Assignment – Types, Examples and Writing Guide

Table of Contents

Definition:

Assignment is a task given to students by a teacher or professor, usually as a means of assessing their understanding and application of course material. Assignments can take various forms, including essays, research papers, presentations, problem sets, lab reports, and more.

Assignments are typically designed to be completed outside of class time and may require independent research, critical thinking, and analysis. They are often graded and used as a significant component of a student’s overall course grade. The instructions for an assignment usually specify the goals, requirements, and deadlines for completion, and students are expected to meet these criteria to earn a good grade.

History of Assignment

The use of assignments as a tool for teaching and learning has been a part of education for centuries. Following is a brief history of the Assignment.

• Ancient Times: Assignments such as writing exercises, recitations, and memorization tasks were used to reinforce learning.
• Medieval Period : Universities began to develop the concept of the assignment, with students completing essays, commentaries, and translations to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the subject matter.
• 19th Century : With the growth of schools and universities, assignments became more widespread and were used to assess student progress and achievement.
• 20th Century: The rise of distance education and online learning led to the further development of assignments as an integral part of the educational process.
• Present Day: Assignments continue to be used in a variety of educational settings and are seen as an effective way to promote student learning and assess student achievement. The nature and format of assignments continue to evolve in response to changing educational needs and technological innovations.

Types of Assignment

Here are some of the most common types of assignments:

An essay is a piece of writing that presents an argument, analysis, or interpretation of a topic or question. It usually consists of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Essay structure:

• Introduction : introduces the topic and thesis statement
• Body paragraphs : each paragraph presents a different argument or idea, with evidence and analysis to support it
• Conclusion : summarizes the key points and reiterates the thesis statement

Research paper

A research paper involves gathering and analyzing information on a particular topic, and presenting the findings in a well-structured, documented paper. It usually involves conducting original research, collecting data, and presenting it in a clear, organized manner.

Research paper structure:

• Title page : includes the title of the paper, author’s name, date, and institution
• Abstract : summarizes the paper’s main points and conclusions
• Introduction : provides background information on the topic and research question
• Literature review: summarizes previous research on the topic
• Methodology : explains how the research was conducted
• Results : presents the findings of the research
• Discussion : interprets the results and draws conclusions
• Conclusion : summarizes the key findings and implications

A case study involves analyzing a real-life situation, problem or issue, and presenting a solution or recommendations based on the analysis. It often involves extensive research, data analysis, and critical thinking.

Case study structure:

• Introduction : introduces the case study and its purpose
• Background : provides context and background information on the case
• Analysis : examines the key issues and problems in the case
• Solution/recommendations: proposes solutions or recommendations based on the analysis
• Conclusion: Summarize the key points and implications

A lab report is a scientific document that summarizes the results of a laboratory experiment or research project. It typically includes an introduction, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.

Lab report structure:

• Title page : includes the title of the experiment, author’s name, date, and institution
• Abstract : summarizes the purpose, methodology, and results of the experiment
• Methods : explains how the experiment was conducted
• Results : presents the findings of the experiment

Presentation

A presentation involves delivering information, data or findings to an audience, often with the use of visual aids such as slides, charts, or diagrams. It requires clear communication skills, good organization, and effective use of technology.

Presentation structure:

• Introduction : introduces the topic and purpose of the presentation
• Body : presents the main points, findings, or data, with the help of visual aids
• Conclusion : summarizes the key points and provides a closing statement

Creative Project

A creative project is an assignment that requires students to produce something original, such as a painting, sculpture, video, or creative writing piece. It allows students to demonstrate their creativity and artistic skills.

Creative project structure:

• Introduction : introduces the project and its purpose
• Body : presents the creative work, with explanations or descriptions as needed
• Conclusion : summarizes the key elements and reflects on the creative process.

Examples of Assignments

Following are Examples of Assignment templates samples:

Essay template:

I. Introduction

• Hook: Grab the reader’s attention with a catchy opening sentence.
• Background: Provide some context or background information on the topic.
• Thesis statement: State the main argument or point of your essay.

II. Body paragraphs

• Topic sentence: Introduce the main idea or argument of the paragraph.
• Evidence: Provide evidence or examples to support your point.
• Analysis: Explain how the evidence supports your argument.
• Transition: Use a transition sentence to lead into the next paragraph.

III. Conclusion

• Restate thesis: Summarize your main argument or point.
• Review key points: Summarize the main points you made in your essay.
• Concluding thoughts: End with a final thought or call to action.

Research paper template:

I. Title page

• Title: Give your paper a descriptive title.
• Author: Include your name and institutional affiliation.
• Date: Provide the date the paper was submitted.

II. Abstract

• Background: Summarize the background and purpose of your research.
• Methodology: Describe the methods you used to conduct your research.
• Results: Summarize the main findings of your research.
• Conclusion: Provide a brief summary of the implications and conclusions of your research.

III. Introduction

• Background: Provide some background information on the topic.
• Research question: State your research question or hypothesis.
• Purpose: Explain the purpose of your research.

IV. Literature review

• Background: Summarize previous research on the topic.
• Gaps in research: Identify gaps or areas that need further research.

V. Methodology

• Participants: Describe the participants in your study.
• Procedure: Explain the procedure you used to conduct your research.
• Measures: Describe the measures you used to collect data.

VI. Results

• Quantitative results: Summarize the quantitative data you collected.
• Qualitative results: Summarize the qualitative data you collected.

VII. Discussion

• Interpretation: Interpret the results and explain what they mean.
• Implications: Discuss the implications of your research.
• Limitations: Identify any limitations or weaknesses of your research.

VIII. Conclusion

• Review key points: Summarize the main points you made in your paper.

Case study template:

• Background: Provide background information on the case.
• Research question: State the research question or problem you are examining.
• Purpose: Explain the purpose of the case study.

II. Analysis

• Problem: Identify the main problem or issue in the case.
• Factors: Describe the factors that contributed to the problem.
• Alternative solutions: Describe potential solutions to the problem.

III. Solution/recommendations

• Proposed solution: Describe the solution you are proposing.
• Rationale: Explain why this solution is the best one.
• Implementation: Describe how the solution can be implemented.

IV. Conclusion

• Summary: Summarize the main points of your case study.

Lab report template:

• Title: Give your report a descriptive title.
• Date: Provide the date the report was submitted.
• Background: Summarize the background and purpose of the experiment.
• Methodology: Describe the methods you used to conduct the experiment.
• Results: Summarize the main findings of the experiment.
• Conclusion: Provide a brief summary of the implications and conclusions
• Background: Provide some background information on the experiment.
• Hypothesis: State your hypothesis or research question.
• Purpose: Explain the purpose of the experiment.

IV. Materials and methods

• Materials: List the materials and equipment used in the experiment.
• Procedure: Describe the procedure you followed to conduct the experiment.
• Data: Present the data you collected in tables or graphs.
• Analysis: Analyze the data and describe the patterns or trends you observed.

VI. Discussion

• Implications: Discuss the implications of your findings.
• Limitations: Identify any limitations or weaknesses of the experiment.

VII. Conclusion

• Restate hypothesis: Summarize your hypothesis or research question.
• Review key points: Summarize the main points you made in your report.

Presentation template:

• Attention grabber: Grab the audience’s attention with a catchy opening.
• Purpose: Explain the purpose of your presentation.
• Overview: Provide an overview of what you will cover in your presentation.

II. Main points

• Main point 1: Present the first main point of your presentation.
• Supporting details: Provide supporting details or evidence to support your point.
• Main point 2: Present the second main point of your presentation.
• Main point 3: Present the third main point of your presentation.
• Summary: Summarize the main points of your presentation.
• Call to action: End with a final thought or call to action.

Creative writing template:

• Setting: Describe the setting of your story.
• Characters: Introduce the main characters of your story.
• Rising action: Introduce the conflict or problem in your story.
• Climax: Present the most intense moment of the story.
• Falling action: Resolve the conflict or problem in your story.
• Resolution: Describe how the conflict or problem was resolved.
• Final thoughts: End with a final thought or reflection on the story.

How to Write Assignment

Here is a general guide on how to write an assignment:

• Understand the assignment prompt: Before you begin writing, make sure you understand what the assignment requires. Read the prompt carefully and make note of any specific requirements or guidelines.
• Research and gather information: Depending on the type of assignment, you may need to do research to gather information to support your argument or points. Use credible sources such as academic journals, books, and reputable websites.
• Organize your ideas : Once you have gathered all the necessary information, organize your ideas into a clear and logical structure. Consider creating an outline or diagram to help you visualize your ideas.
• Write a draft: Begin writing your assignment using your organized ideas and research. Don’t worry too much about grammar or sentence structure at this point; the goal is to get your thoughts down on paper.
• Revise and edit: After you have written a draft, revise and edit your work. Make sure your ideas are presented in a clear and concise manner, and that your sentences and paragraphs flow smoothly.
• Proofread: Finally, proofread your work for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. It’s a good idea to have someone else read over your assignment as well to catch any mistakes you may have missed.
• Submit your assignment : Once you are satisfied with your work, submit your assignment according to the instructions provided by your instructor or professor.

Applications of Assignment

Assignments have many applications across different fields and industries. Here are a few examples:

• Education : Assignments are a common tool used in education to help students learn and demonstrate their knowledge. They can be used to assess a student’s understanding of a particular topic, to develop critical thinking skills, and to improve writing and research abilities.
• Business : Assignments can be used in the business world to assess employee skills, to evaluate job performance, and to provide training opportunities. They can also be used to develop business plans, marketing strategies, and financial projections.
• Journalism : Assignments are often used in journalism to produce news articles, features, and investigative reports. Journalists may be assigned to cover a particular event or topic, or to research and write a story on a specific subject.
• Research : Assignments can be used in research to collect and analyze data, to conduct experiments, and to present findings in written or oral form. Researchers may be assigned to conduct research on a specific topic, to write a research paper, or to present their findings at a conference or seminar.
• Government : Assignments can be used in government to develop policy proposals, to conduct research, and to analyze data. Government officials may be assigned to work on a specific project or to conduct research on a particular topic.
• Non-profit organizations: Assignments can be used in non-profit organizations to develop fundraising strategies, to plan events, and to conduct research. Volunteers may be assigned to work on a specific project or to help with a particular task.

Purpose of Assignment

The purpose of an assignment varies depending on the context in which it is given. However, some common purposes of assignments include:

• Assessing learning: Assignments are often used to assess a student’s understanding of a particular topic or concept. This allows educators to determine if a student has mastered the material or if they need additional support.
• Developing skills: Assignments can be used to develop a wide range of skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, research, and communication. Assignments that require students to analyze and synthesize information can help to build these skills.
• Encouraging creativity: Assignments can be designed to encourage students to be creative and think outside the box. This can help to foster innovation and original thinking.
• Providing feedback : Assignments provide an opportunity for teachers to provide feedback to students on their progress and performance. Feedback can help students to understand where they need to improve and to develop a growth mindset.
• Meeting learning objectives : Assignments can be designed to help students meet specific learning objectives or outcomes. For example, a writing assignment may be designed to help students improve their writing skills, while a research assignment may be designed to help students develop their research skills.

When to write Assignment

Assignments are typically given by instructors or professors as part of a course or academic program. The timing of when to write an assignment will depend on the specific requirements of the course or program, but in general, assignments should be completed within the timeframe specified by the instructor or program guidelines.

It is important to begin working on assignments as soon as possible to ensure enough time for research, writing, and revisions. Waiting until the last minute can result in rushed work and lower quality output.

It is also important to prioritize assignments based on their due dates and the amount of work required. This will help to manage time effectively and ensure that all assignments are completed on time.

In addition to assignments given by instructors or professors, there may be other situations where writing an assignment is necessary. For example, in the workplace, assignments may be given to complete a specific project or task. In these situations, it is important to establish clear deadlines and expectations to ensure that the assignment is completed on time and to a high standard.

Characteristics of Assignment

Here are some common characteristics of assignments:

• Purpose : Assignments have a specific purpose, such as assessing knowledge or developing skills. They are designed to help students learn and achieve specific learning objectives.
• Requirements: Assignments have specific requirements that must be met, such as a word count, format, or specific content. These requirements are usually provided by the instructor or professor.
• Deadline: Assignments have a specific deadline for completion, which is usually set by the instructor or professor. It is important to meet the deadline to avoid penalties or lower grades.
• Individual or group work: Assignments can be completed individually or as part of a group. Group assignments may require collaboration and communication with other group members.
• Feedback : Assignments provide an opportunity for feedback from the instructor or professor. This feedback can help students to identify areas of improvement and to develop their skills.
• Academic integrity: Assignments require academic integrity, which means that students must submit original work and avoid plagiarism. This includes citing sources properly and following ethical guidelines.
• Learning outcomes : Assignments are designed to help students achieve specific learning outcomes. These outcomes are usually related to the course objectives and may include developing critical thinking skills, writing abilities, or subject-specific knowledge.

Advantages of Assignment

There are several advantages of assignment, including:

• Helps in learning: Assignments help students to reinforce their learning and understanding of a particular topic. By completing assignments, students get to apply the concepts learned in class, which helps them to better understand and retain the information.
• Develops critical thinking skills: Assignments often require students to think critically and analyze information in order to come up with a solution or answer. This helps to develop their critical thinking skills, which are important for success in many areas of life.
• Encourages creativity: Assignments that require students to create something, such as a piece of writing or a project, can encourage creativity and innovation. This can help students to develop new ideas and perspectives, which can be beneficial in many areas of life.
• Builds time-management skills: Assignments often come with deadlines, which can help students to develop time-management skills. Learning how to manage time effectively is an important skill that can help students to succeed in many areas of life.
• Provides feedback: Assignments provide an opportunity for students to receive feedback on their work. This feedback can help students to identify areas where they need to improve and can help them to grow and develop.

Limitations of Assignment

There are also some limitations of assignments that should be considered, including:

• Limited scope: Assignments are often limited in scope, and may not provide a comprehensive understanding of a particular topic. They may only cover a specific aspect of a topic, and may not provide a full picture of the subject matter.
• Lack of engagement: Some assignments may not engage students in the learning process, particularly if they are repetitive or not challenging enough. This can lead to a lack of motivation and interest in the subject matter.
• Time-consuming: Assignments can be time-consuming, particularly if they require a lot of research or writing. This can be a disadvantage for students who have other commitments, such as work or extracurricular activities.
• Unreliable assessment: The assessment of assignments can be subjective and may not always accurately reflect a student’s understanding or abilities. The grading may be influenced by factors such as the instructor’s personal biases or the student’s writing style.
• Lack of feedback : Although assignments can provide feedback, this feedback may not always be detailed or useful. Instructors may not have the time or resources to provide detailed feedback on every assignment, which can limit the value of the feedback that students receive.

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Home » Education » What is the Difference Between Assignment and Assessment

What is the Difference Between Assignment and Assessment

The main difference between assignment and assessment is that assignments refer to the allocation of a task or set of tasks that are marked and graded while a ssessment refers to methods for establishing if students have achieved a learning outcome, or are on their way toward a learning objective.  

Assignments and assessment are two important concepts in modern education. Although these two words are similar, they have different meanings. Assignments are the pieces of coursework or homework students are expected to complete. Assessment, on the other hand, refer to the method of assessing the progress of students. Sometimes, assignments can act as tools of assessment.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is an Assignment       – Definition, Goals, Characteristics 2. What is an Assessment      – Definition, Characteristics 3. Difference Between Assignment and Assessment      – Comparison of Key Differences

What is an Assignment

Assignments are the pieces of coursework or homework given to the students by teachers at school or professors at university. In other words, assignments refer to the allocation of a task or set of tasks that are marked and graded. Assignments are essential components in primary, secondary and tertiary education.

Assignments have several goals, as described below:

– gives students a better understanding of the topic being studied

– develops learning and understanding skills of students

– helps students in self-study

– develops research and analytical skills

– teaches students time management and organization

– clear students’ problems or ambiguities regarding any subject

– enhance the creativity of students

Generally, educators assign such tasks to complete at home and submit to school after a certain period of time. The time period assigned may depend on the nature of the task. Essays, posters, presentation, annotated bibliography, review of a book, summary, charts and graphs are some examples of assignments. Writing assignments develop the writing skills of students while creative assignments like creating posters, graphs and charts and making presentation enhance the creativity of students. Ultimately, assignments help to assess the knowledge and skills, as well as the students’ understanding of the topic.

What is an Assessment

Assessment refers to methods for establishing if students have achieved a learning outcome, or are on their way toward a learning objective. In other words, it is the method of assessing the progress of students. Assessment helps the educators to determine what students are learning and how well they are learning it, especially in relation to the expected learning outcomes of a lesson. Therefore, it helps the educator to understand how the students understand the lesson, and to determine what changes need to be made to the teaching process. Moreover, assessment focuses on both learning as well as teaching and can be termed as an interactive process. Sometimes, assignments can act as tools of assessment.

There are two main types of assessment as formative and summative assessment . Formative assessments occur during the learning process, whereas summative assessments occur at the end of a learning unit. Quizzes, discussions, and making students write summaries of the lesson are examples of formative assessment while end of unit tests, term tests and final projects are examples of summative assessment. Moreover, formative assessments aim to monitor student learning while summative assessments aim to evaluate student learning.

Difference Between Assignment and Assessment

Assignments refer to the allocation of a task or set of tasks that are marked and graded while assessment refers to methods for establishing if students have achieved a learning outcome, or are on their way toward a learning objective. 

Assignments are the pieces of coursework or homework students have to complete while assessment is the method of assessing the progress of students

Goal                

Moreover, assignments aim to give students a more comprehensive understanding of the topic being studied and develop learning and understanding skills of students. However, the main goal of assessment is monitoring and evaluating student learning and progress.

Assignments are the pieces of coursework or homework students have to complete while assessment refers to the method of assessing the progress of students. This is the main difference between assignment and assessment. Sometimes, assignments can also act as tools of assessment.

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Standard Test Method for Assignment of the DSC Procedure for Determining Tg of a Polymer or an Elastomeric Compound

Significance and Use

5.1  Differential scanning calorimetry provides a rapid test method for determining changes in specific heat capacity in a homogeneous material or domain. The glass transition is manifested as a step change in specific heat capacity. For amorphous and semi-crystalline materials the determination of the glass transition temperature may lead to important information about their thermal history, processing conditions, stability of phases, and progress of chemical reactions.

5.2  This test method is useful for research, quality control, and specification acceptance.

1.1  This test method covers the assignment of the glass transition temperatures (T g ) of materials using differential scanning calorimetry.

1.2  This test method is applicable to amorphous materials, including thermosets or semicrystaline materials containing amorphous regions, that are stable and do not undergo decomposition or sublimation in the glass transition region.

1.3  The normal operating temperature range is from –120 to 500°C. The temperature range may be extended, depending upon the instrumentation used.

1.4  Computer or electronic-based instruments, techniques, or data treatment equivalent to this test method may also be used.

Note 1:   Users of this test method are expressly advised that all such instruments or techniques may not be equivalent. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to determine the necessary equivalency prior to use.

1.5  ISO 11357–2 is equivalent to this test method.

1.6  The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.7   This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8   This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

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Adaptive Fuzzy Positive Learning for Annotation-Scarce Semantic Segmentation

• Published: 02 September 2024

Cite this article

• Pengchong Qiao   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-9292-2744 1 , 2 ,
• Yu Wang 1 ,
• Chang Liu 5 ,
• Lei Shang 2 ,
• Baigui Sun 2 ,
• Zhennan Wang 3 ,
• Xiawu Zheng 3 , 4 ,
• Rongrong Ji 3 , 4 &
• Jie Chen 1 , 3  

Annotation-scarce semantic segmentation aims to obtain meaningful pixel-level discrimination with scarce or even no manual annotations, of which the crux is how to utilize unlabeled data by pseudo-label learning. Typical works focus on ameliorating the error-prone pseudo-labeling, e.g., only utilizing high-confidence pseudo labels and filtering low-confidence ones out. But we think differently and resort to exhausting informative semantics from multiple probably correct candidate labels. This brings our method the ability to learn more accurately even though pseudo labels are unreliable. In this paper, we propose Adaptive Fuzzy Positive Learning (A-FPL) for correctly learning unlabeled data in a plug-and-play fashion, targeting adaptively encouraging fuzzy positive predictions and suppressing highly probable negatives. Specifically, A-FPL comprises two main components: (1) Fuzzy positive assignment (FPA) that adaptively assigns fuzzy positive labels to each pixel, while ensuring their quality through a T-value adaption algorithm (2) Fuzzy positive regularization (FPR) that restricts the predictions of fuzzy positive categories to be larger than those of negative categories. Being conceptually simple yet practically effective, A-FPL remarkably alleviates interference from wrong pseudo labels, progressively refining semantic discrimination. Theoretical analysis and extensive experiments on various training settings with consistent performance gain justify the superiority of our approach. Codes are at A-FPL .

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This work was supported in part by the National Key R &D Program of China (No. 2022ZD0118201), Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 61972217, 32071459, 62176249, 62006133, 62271465), the Shenzhen Medical Research Funds in China (No. B2302037), and AI for Science (AI4S)-Preferred Program, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, China.

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Pengchong Qiao, Yu Wang & Jie Chen

DAMO Academy, Alibaba Group, Hangzhou, China

Pengchong Qiao, Lei Shang & Baigui Sun

Peng Cheng Laboratory, Shenzhen, China

Zhennan Wang, Xiawu Zheng, Rongrong Ji & Jie Chen

Department of Artificial Intelligence, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China

Xiawu Zheng & Rongrong Ji

Department of Automation and BNRist, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China

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Qiao, P., Wang, Y., Liu, C. et al. Adaptive Fuzzy Positive Learning for Annotation-Scarce Semantic Segmentation. Int J Comput Vis (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11263-024-02217-1

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Received : 13 October 2023

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/s11263-024-02217-1

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