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Academic St<strong>and</strong>ards Guidelines<br />

Section F<br />

Guidelines for the Conduct <strong>of</strong> Examinations <strong>and</strong> Other Forms <strong>of</strong> Assessment<br />

for Taught Programmes<br />

2<br />

Figure: External Examiners Reports 9<br />

Guidelines on Good Practice In Relation To Determining <strong>and</strong> Using Assessment Criteria 18<br />

University <strong>of</strong> Surrey, Undergraduate Grade Descriptors 20<br />

University Policy <strong>and</strong> Guidelines for the Anonymous Marking <strong>of</strong> Examination Scripts 23<br />

Statement <strong>of</strong> Policy on Special Examination Arrangements 24<br />

Figure: Procedure for Special Assessment Arrangements 25<br />

1


Section F: Guidelines for the Conduct <strong>of</strong> Examinations <strong>and</strong> Other<br />

Forms <strong>of</strong> Assessment for Taught Programmes<br />

1 Scope <strong>of</strong> Guidelines<br />

These guidelines are concerned with procedures <strong>and</strong> documentation associated with<br />

the <strong>assessment</strong> <strong>of</strong> undergraduate <strong>and</strong> postgraduate taught programmes, including<br />

<strong>examinations</strong>, coursework, practical work, assignments <strong>and</strong> projects. These guidelines<br />

should be read in conjunction with the University's General Regulations that are set<br />

out in full in the University Calendar:<br />

http://portal.surrey.ac.uk/calendar/generalregs/index.jsp<br />

The pertinent General Regulations for this purpose are:<br />

General Regulations for First Degrees, Diplomas <strong>and</strong> Certificates for Students Pursuing<br />

Modular Programmes <strong>of</strong> Study<br />

General Regulations for the Degree(s) <strong>of</strong> Master (modular <strong>and</strong> non-modular)<br />

Regulations for Practitioner Doctorate (DBA, DClinPrac, EdD, EngD <strong>and</strong> PsychD)<br />

Regulations for Boards <strong>of</strong> Examiners<br />

Regulations for External Examining<br />

Regulations for the Conduct <strong>of</strong> Examinations <strong>and</strong> Other Forms <strong>of</strong> Assessment<br />

Regulations for Boards <strong>of</strong> Studies<br />

2 Board <strong>of</strong> Studies <strong>and</strong> Regulations<br />

2.1 Each Board <strong>of</strong> Studies is responsible for the organisation <strong>and</strong> implementation <strong>of</strong> the<br />

programme(s) <strong>of</strong> study for which it has been established. For each programme <strong>of</strong> study<br />

leading to an award <strong>of</strong> the University there shall be Programme Regulations, approved<br />

by the Quality & St<strong>and</strong>ards Subcommittee, which will include, inter alia:<br />

2.1.1 a clear statement <strong>of</strong> the scheme <strong>of</strong> <strong>assessment</strong> associated with each individual<br />

course/module <strong>and</strong> for the programme <strong>of</strong> study overall;<br />

2.1.2 requirements for the progression <strong>of</strong> students from one stage <strong>of</strong> the<br />

programme to an<strong>other</strong> (including procedures by which any failure to satisfy<br />

the examiners can be redeemed);<br />

2.1.3 requirements for the award <strong>of</strong> the target qualification;<br />

2.1.4 where appropriate, an indication <strong>of</strong> the way in which classifications or<br />

merits/distinctions will be determined;<br />

2.1.5 date approved by the Quality & St<strong>and</strong>ards Subcommittee.<br />

For closely related programmes it may be appropriate to have a single set <strong>of</strong> joint<br />

regulations.<br />

As a matter <strong>of</strong> principle, the Quality & St<strong>and</strong>ards Subcommittee will not approve<br />

retrospective revisions if those revisions might disadvantage students on programme,<br />

unless the students give their unanimous written consent.<br />

2.2 Faculties will be responsible for notifying students <strong>of</strong> the nature <strong>of</strong> any required<br />

coursework or projects, together with the deadlines for the submission <strong>of</strong> that work<br />

(see also Academic St<strong>and</strong>ards Guidelines: Communications with Students).<br />

2


3 Boards <strong>of</strong> Examiners<br />

3.1 For each programme <strong>of</strong> study leading to an award <strong>of</strong> the University, there shall be a<br />

Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners. The Quality & St<strong>and</strong>ards Subcommittee will approve arrangements<br />

for Boards <strong>of</strong> Examiners when programmes are validated or reviewed. When two or<br />

more programmes <strong>of</strong> study share a substantial part in common, the Quality &<br />

St<strong>and</strong>ards Subcommittee may determine that there will be a joint Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners.<br />

3.2 The Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners. is responsible to the Dean <strong>of</strong> Faculty(-ies) responsible for a<br />

programme <strong>of</strong> study <strong>and</strong> for the general conduct <strong>of</strong> the <strong>assessment</strong> for that<br />

programme, in accordance with the General <strong>and</strong> the more specific Programme<br />

Regulations. It will ensure that suitable arrangements are made for the setting, holding<br />

<strong>and</strong> marking <strong>of</strong> <strong>examinations</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>other</strong> <strong>forms</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>assessment</strong>.<br />

3.3 Regulations for Boards <strong>of</strong> Examiners, governing inter alia the establishment,<br />

membership, terms <strong>of</strong> reference, frequency <strong>and</strong> quorum for meetings for Boards <strong>of</strong><br />

Examiners, are set out in full in the University Calendar:<br />

http://portal.surrey.ac.uk/calendar/generalregs/index.jsp<br />

4 External Examiners<br />

4.1 The purposes <strong>of</strong> the system <strong>of</strong> external examining are:<br />

4.1.1 to ensure, first <strong>and</strong> foremost, that degrees <strong>and</strong> <strong>other</strong> academic qualifications<br />

awarded in similar subjects or disciplines are comparable in st<strong>and</strong>ard in<br />

different universities <strong>and</strong> institutions <strong>of</strong> higher education in the United<br />

Kingdom, though their content may vary;<br />

4.1.2 to ensure that the system <strong>of</strong> <strong>assessment</strong> is fair <strong>and</strong> is fairly operated in the<br />

determination <strong>and</strong>, where appropriate, classification <strong>of</strong> awards made to<br />

students.<br />

4.2 Regulations for External Examining are published annually in the University Calendar:<br />

http://portal.surrey.ac.uk/calendar/generalregs/index.jsp<br />

For each programme <strong>of</strong> study leading to an award <strong>of</strong> the University at least one<br />

external examiner shall be appointed.<br />

4.3 No degree or <strong>other</strong> academic qualification <strong>of</strong> the University may be awarded without<br />

participation in the process <strong>of</strong> examination <strong>and</strong> <strong>assessment</strong> by at least one external<br />

examiner.<br />

4.4 External examiners for taught programmes <strong>of</strong> study are appointed by the Senate<br />

Progression And Conferment Executive, acting with the delegated authority <strong>of</strong> the<br />

University Council. Upon appointment, an external examiner becomes a member <strong>of</strong><br />

the appropriate Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners ex <strong>of</strong>ficio.<br />

4.6 Eligibility for appointment as an external examiner is set out in Regulations for External<br />

Examining. The principles which underpin the rules on eligibility, however, are:<br />

4.6.1 that the individual must be impartial;<br />

4.6.2 that a nominee has, or has had within the previous four years, no close<br />

pr<strong>of</strong>essional link with the programme or Faculty/Department to which he/she<br />

is to be attached, or any close personal connection with staff or students, <strong>and</strong><br />

is not a current student at the University or at one <strong>of</strong> its Associated<br />

Institutions or has been a student within four years prior to the date <strong>of</strong><br />

commencement <strong>of</strong> the proposed appointment as external examiner;<br />

3


4.6.3 that the individual’s academic <strong>and</strong> / or pr<strong>of</strong>essional qualifications <strong>and</strong><br />

experience <strong>of</strong> teaching <strong>and</strong> <strong>assessment</strong> are appropriate in relation to the<br />

programme or specific component <strong>of</strong> the programme for which the<br />

appointment is being made <strong>and</strong> also, where appropriate, that to criteria<br />

specified by pr<strong>of</strong>essional or statutory bodies. [As a guide, a sole appointee as<br />

external examiner should ordinarily be <strong>of</strong> senior lecturer level or above.<br />

However, the University recognises that, in the interests <strong>of</strong> allowing<br />

individuals to gain experience, a less senior appointee may be appointed<br />

normally only when there is already at least one experienced serving external<br />

examiner In some disciplines, it is recognised that there may be only a small<br />

pool <strong>of</strong> eligible c<strong>and</strong>idates; in some instances, it may be appropriate to<br />

appoint an industry-based external examiner];<br />

4.6.4 that the individual has sufficient breadth <strong>of</strong> experience to be able to monitor<br />

<strong>and</strong> make judgements on the comparability <strong>of</strong> academic st<strong>and</strong>ards with<br />

similar programmes at the same level in <strong>other</strong> institutions;<br />

4.6.5 that programmes <strong>and</strong> <strong>assessment</strong> procedures should benefit from scrutiny by<br />

external examiners drawn over time from a wide range <strong>of</strong> institutional/<br />

pr<strong>of</strong>essional contexts <strong>and</strong> traditions;<br />

4.6.6 that appointees have the time to undertake the role <strong>of</strong> external examiner<br />

diligently <strong>and</strong> effectively <strong>and</strong> should therefore not be over-extended by their<br />

duties as external examiner. A nominee, who already holds two or more<br />

similar appointments at undergraduate level will not normally be appointed;<br />

4.6.7 that, wherever possible, appointments should not establish a close reciprocal<br />

external examining arrangements, for example, between programme teams or<br />

Faculties/Departments in a similar discipline. [SPACE may consider an<br />

appointment between institutions/ Faculties, however, where it can be<br />

demonstrated that the reciprocity is not within the same discipline or subject<br />

area <strong>and</strong> is such that neither examiner’s independence is compromised.]<br />

4.7 Before a nomination has been considered <strong>and</strong> agreed by the Board <strong>of</strong> Studies, an<br />

initial, informal approach should be made to the nominee by the Faculty. In so doing,<br />

the Faculty should ascertain that the nominee is eligible for appointment in accordance<br />

with the General Regulations. The nominee should be asked to confirm his/her<br />

eligibility by reading, signing <strong>and</strong> dating the Statement <strong>of</strong> Eligibility form (available<br />

from the Assistant Registrar (Quality Support) tel. 9108).<br />

4.8 Nominations for appointment or re-appointment as external examiners are submitted<br />

for approval to the Senate Progression And Conferment Executive) by the Board <strong>of</strong><br />

Studies. The submission <strong>of</strong> a nomination should be made via the Assistant Registrar<br />

(Quality Support) using the common Nomination Form (available from the Quality<br />

Support Section in Academic Registry), which provides information on:<br />

4.8.1 the nominating Faculty;<br />

4.8.2 the programme <strong>of</strong> study for which responsibility is to be taken (including,<br />

where appropriate, that part or parts <strong>of</strong> the programme or specific modules<br />

for which he/she will take particular responsibility);<br />

4.8.3 his/her title <strong>and</strong> name;<br />

4.8.4 his/her current academic/pr<strong>of</strong>essional position;<br />

4.8.5 his/her current address;<br />

4


4.8.6 sufficient information on the nominee's competence <strong>and</strong> experience to enable<br />

the Senate Progression And Conferment Executive to make an informed<br />

decision [In the case <strong>of</strong> an initial appointment, a nomination should be<br />

accompanied by a signed Eligibility Form <strong>and</strong> a curriculum vitae];<br />

4.8.7 the duration <strong>of</strong> the appointment or re-appointment, up to 3 consecutive years<br />

in the first instance, with automatic progression to one final year 1 ;<br />

4.8.8 the date from which the appointment will be effective (usually the beginning<br />

<strong>of</strong> the academic year in which the appointee will take up his/her duties).<br />

4.9 Once a nomination has been approved, the Assistant Registrar (Quality Support) will<br />

write formally to the individual, <strong>of</strong>fering him/her appointment. The letter <strong>of</strong><br />

appointment will:<br />

4.9.1 specify the award-bearing programme(s) (or subject area(s)) for which the<br />

individual is being appointed, together with any specific areas/modules <strong>of</strong> the<br />

syllabus for which he/she is asked to take particular responsibility;<br />

4.9.2 specify the period <strong>of</strong> appointment <strong>and</strong> starting date;<br />

4.9.3 indicate the fee that the external examiner should receive <strong>and</strong> explain the<br />

University's position with regard to the deduction <strong>of</strong> tax <strong>and</strong> NI at source, etc.;<br />

4.9.4 request the appointee's NI number;<br />

4.9.5 specify as a requirement the submission <strong>of</strong> an annual written report to the<br />

Vice-Chancellor;<br />

4.9.6 indicate that fees will not be paid unless the University receives an annual<br />

written report.<br />

4.10 With the letter <strong>of</strong> appointment, the Assistant Registrar (Quality Support) will send the<br />

new appointee:<br />

4.10.1 A copy <strong>of</strong> the Notes <strong>of</strong> Guidance <strong>and</strong> Regulations for External Examiners,<br />

included within which are the Regulations for External Examining <strong>and</strong><br />

Regulations for Boards <strong>of</strong> Examiners;<br />

4.10.2 a copy <strong>of</strong> the appropriate set(s) <strong>of</strong> General Undergraduate or Postgraduate<br />

Regulations;<br />

4.10.3 information on the level, structure <strong>and</strong> conditions <strong>of</strong> payment <strong>of</strong> fees <strong>and</strong><br />

travel/subsistence allowances (included in the Notes <strong>of</strong> Guidance <strong>and</strong><br />

Regulations for External Examiners).<br />

4.11 Following an individual’s appointment, the University <strong>and</strong> the appropriate Faculty(-ies)<br />

will be responsible for the induction <strong>of</strong> the external examiner <strong>and</strong> for communicating<br />

with him/her throughout the academic year. If induction is not facilitated through the<br />

University Induction Programme for External Examiners, which takes place annually for<br />

newly-appointed external examiners, Faculties should contact external examiners <strong>and</strong><br />

make separate arrangements as necessary.<br />

Induction by the Faculty should include:<br />

4.11.1 sending him/her a copy <strong>of</strong> the up-to-date Programme Regulations;<br />

4.11.2 sending him/her a copy <strong>of</strong> Faculty or Programme H<strong>and</strong>books, which outline<br />

the aims objectives structure <strong>and</strong> content <strong>of</strong> the definitive programme <strong>and</strong><br />

<strong>other</strong> relevant information, including any relevant Subject Benchmark<br />

Statement(s);<br />

1<br />

With effect from 1 September 2002, external examiners are now appointed for three years in the first instance.<br />

Their appointments will be extended automatically for a fourth <strong>and</strong> final year unless the Examinations Office is<br />

advised by the External Examiner or the Faculty/Department to the contrary.<br />

5


4.11.3 the arrangements for submitting schemes <strong>of</strong> <strong>assessment</strong> <strong>and</strong> draft<br />

examination papers for approval;<br />

4.11.4 advice on the schedule <strong>of</strong> <strong>assessment</strong>s for the academic year (if not already<br />

included in the above) <strong>and</strong> the likely timing <strong>of</strong> <strong>examinations</strong>, viva voce<br />

<strong>examinations</strong>, etc, which will be subject to external moderation;<br />

4.11.5 consulting <strong>and</strong> agreeing dates for meetings <strong>of</strong> the Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners <strong>and</strong>, in<br />

particular, for the final meeting;<br />

4.11.6 sending at the appropriate time a report form <strong>and</strong> claim form for fees<br />

(completed by the Faculty) <strong>and</strong> for travel/subsistence expenses.<br />

It is recommended that, if a newly-appointed external examiner is unable to attend<br />

the University’s Induction for External Examiners, he/she be invited by the Faculty to<br />

visit the University to meet with staff <strong>and</strong> students <strong>and</strong> to discuss the programme <strong>and</strong><br />

detailed arrangements for interaction between the external examiner <strong>and</strong> the Faculty.<br />

4.12 At the completion <strong>of</strong> the <strong>assessment</strong> each academic year (normally within six weeks <strong>of</strong><br />

the moderation <strong>of</strong> the final <strong>assessment</strong> for which they are responsible) <strong>and</strong> at the<br />

conclusion <strong>of</strong> their period <strong>of</strong> appointment, external examiners are required to submit<br />

to the Vice-Chancellor a written report on the <strong>assessment</strong> procedures <strong>and</strong> st<strong>and</strong>ards<br />

associated with the programme <strong>of</strong> study for which they are responsible. The report,<br />

employing a common pro-forma, invites comment upon:<br />

4.12.1 the programme <strong>of</strong> study itself (clarity <strong>of</strong> programme aims <strong>and</strong> learning<br />

outcomes; the structure <strong>and</strong> content <strong>of</strong> the programme in relation to the<br />

general aims <strong>and</strong> learning outcomes);<br />

4.12.2 the appropriateness <strong>of</strong> the method(s) <strong>of</strong> <strong>assessment</strong> for the stated learning<br />

outcomes (including knowledge, underst<strong>and</strong>ing, practical skills <strong>and</strong> key<br />

transferable skills, as appropriate) for the programme <strong>and</strong> / or individual<br />

modules;<br />

4.12.3 the congruence <strong>of</strong> the programme/award with external points <strong>of</strong> reference<br />

(e.g., the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications, relevant benchmark<br />

statement(s), pr<strong>of</strong>essional or statutory body st<strong>and</strong>ards);<br />

4.12.4 the appropriateness <strong>of</strong> the marking criteria used, <strong>of</strong> marks awarded <strong>and</strong> the<br />

overall range <strong>of</strong> marks in relation to the marking criteria;<br />

4.12.5 the consistency <strong>of</strong> marking within <strong>and</strong> between the modules/courses<br />

moderated;<br />

4.12.6 quality <strong>and</strong> consistency <strong>of</strong> written feedback to students;<br />

4.12.7 the organisation <strong>and</strong> administration <strong>of</strong> <strong>assessment</strong> procedures <strong>and</strong> the<br />

Faculty’s adherence to procedures, regulations <strong>and</strong> rules for the classification<br />

or division <strong>of</strong> awards.<br />

The pro- forma also includes a checklist which external examiners are asked to<br />

complete.<br />

4.13 The University will expect the Chair <strong>of</strong> the Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners to have invited the<br />

external examiners to make their observations <strong>and</strong> comments verbally <strong>and</strong> directly<br />

during formal meetings <strong>of</strong> the Board. When, for any reason, an external examiner is<br />

unable to attend a meeting <strong>of</strong> a Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners, he/she should be invited, to give<br />

written feedback, prior to the meeting, on the <strong>assessment</strong>s he/she has moderated.<br />

5 External Examiners' Reports<br />

5.1 Figure 8 illustrates the model system within the University for dealing with external<br />

examiners.’ reports described below.<br />

6


5.2 External report pro-formas will be issued to External Examiners by the Quality Support<br />

Section <strong>of</strong> the Academic Registry on appointment, or by Faculties. Copies <strong>of</strong> the<br />

report pro-forma can be accessed on the University web site at:<br />

http://portal.surrey.ac.uk/registry/qaeo/externals<br />

5.3 External examiners’ reports are generally regarded as confidential to the University but<br />

the report pro-forma indicates that they will be made available, for example, to<br />

representatives <strong>of</strong> the QAA <strong>and</strong> OFSTED, to appropriate statutory or pr<strong>of</strong>essional<br />

bodies <strong>and</strong> to members <strong>of</strong> a Periodic Review Panel. External examiners' reports may be<br />

made available to any <strong>other</strong> person or persons outside the University only with the<br />

prior agreement <strong>of</strong> the University <strong>and</strong> <strong>of</strong> the authors. However, in accordance with<br />

the provisions <strong>of</strong> the Data Protection Act 1998, information within a report relating to<br />

named individual students or members <strong>of</strong> staff may also be made available to those<br />

individuals on request but in summary form. External Examiners are advised that<br />

information relating to individuals must be attached to the report as a separate,<br />

confidential annex.<br />

5.4 External examiners' reports will be received on behalf <strong>of</strong> the Vice-Chancellor by the<br />

Senior Assistant Registrar (Quality Support), who will pass them immediately to the<br />

Registrar or his/her nominee. The Registrar or his/her nominee will arrange for copies<br />

to be made for distribution to the appropriate Dean <strong>of</strong> Faculty. The Registrar will draw<br />

to the attention <strong>of</strong> the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Development) any matters <strong>of</strong><br />

particular concern.<br />

5.5 The Dean <strong>of</strong> Faculty will be responsible for ensuring that the reports are considered by<br />

the Board <strong>of</strong> Studies (<strong>and</strong> reported in the Annual Programme Review) <strong>and</strong>, where<br />

appropriate, by the Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners.. The reports may, if Faculties wish, be<br />

considered in summary form by the Board <strong>of</strong> Studies <strong>and</strong> Boards may choose to<br />

consider sensitive issues concerning named members <strong>of</strong> staff or students under<br />

“reserved business”. Actions arising from consideration <strong>of</strong> the external examiners.'<br />

reports should be recorded in the Minutes <strong>of</strong> the Board <strong>of</strong> Studies/Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners<br />

<strong>and</strong> promulgated through the University committees as appropriate. External<br />

examiners should be advised (preferably by letter from the Dean <strong>of</strong> Faculty) <strong>of</strong> the<br />

outcome <strong>of</strong> consideration <strong>of</strong> their reports <strong>and</strong> <strong>of</strong> specific actions which the Board <strong>of</strong><br />

Studies has agreed to take. The Faculty’s response should be copied to the Quality<br />

Support Section, Academic Registry.<br />

5.6 The Dean <strong>of</strong> Faculty will maintain a watching brief over all the programmes <strong>of</strong> study<br />

available within the Faculty. He/she may delegate this function to a person or group <strong>of</strong><br />

persons acting on his/her behalf. The Dean <strong>of</strong> Faculty, the nominated person or group<br />

<strong>of</strong> persons, will be responsible for ensuring that reports are considered <strong>and</strong> acted<br />

upon.<br />

5.7 External examiners' reports will ordinarily be considered as part <strong>of</strong> the documentation<br />

prepared by the Faculty for the periodic review <strong>of</strong> a programme <strong>of</strong> study.<br />

5.8 Upon receipt <strong>of</strong> a completed claim form, the Assistant Registrar (Quality Support) will<br />

authorise fee payment to the external examiner in accordance with the scale <strong>of</strong> fees<br />

approved by the University from time to time. Reimbursement <strong>of</strong> travel <strong>and</strong> subsistence<br />

expenses will also be made by the Assistant Registrar (Quality Support) in accordance<br />

with current University rates. Receipts in support <strong>of</strong> claims for subsistence must be<br />

submitted by the external examiners.<br />

5.9 No payment <strong>of</strong> a fee will be made unless <strong>and</strong> until the University has received an<br />

annual report from the external examiner.<br />

5.10 In the event that an external examiner fails to submit an expected annual report, the<br />

Quality Support Section will issue a reminder.<br />

7


5.11 If an external examiner fails to submit a written report in two consecutive years, the<br />

appointment will be terminated.<br />

Last revised: June 2009<br />

8


Figure 9 – External Examiners Reports<br />

External<br />

Examiner<br />

Quality Support Section<br />

Dean / Boards <strong>of</strong><br />

Studies<br />

Deputy Vice<br />

Chancellor (Ac Dev) /<br />

ULTC<br />

QSS provide<br />

annual summary<br />

report <strong>of</strong> principal<br />

issues arising<br />

from EE Reports<br />

for Q&SS<br />

Q&SS receives <strong>and</strong><br />

considers summary<br />

report <strong>and</strong> agrees<br />

actions as<br />

appropriate<br />

Annual<br />

Summary<br />

Report <strong>of</strong><br />

EE reports<br />

submitted to<br />

ULTC<br />

Serious issues referred to DVC (Ac Dev)<br />

External Examiner<br />

submits Annual<br />

Report <strong>and</strong> Fees<br />

Claim Form<br />

Report <strong>and</strong> Claim<br />

received by QSS<br />

QSS receives,<br />

reads, acknowledges<br />

<strong>and</strong> records Report<br />

on database. QSS<br />

writes to Dean,<br />

drawing attention to<br />

particular concerns<br />

(if applicable).<br />

Dean receives report<br />

<strong>and</strong> refers to Boards <strong>of</strong><br />

Studies for consideration<br />

Feedback to External Examiner (ideally a personal letter from Dean/HoD, copied to QSS)<br />

Key: Q&SS Quality & St<strong>and</strong>ards Subcommittee<br />

QSS Quality Support Section, Academic Registry<br />

ULTC University Learning & Teaching Committee<br />

Copy to QSS<br />

Board <strong>of</strong> Studies<br />

considers Report<br />

<strong>and</strong> agrees action(s)<br />

– Annual<br />

Programme Review<br />

9


6 Examinations Officers<br />

6.1 The University Examinations Officer is responsible for all administrative matters concerning<br />

<strong>examinations</strong>. These include:<br />

6.1.1 the maintenance <strong>and</strong> interpretation <strong>of</strong> the University's General Regulations;<br />

6.1.2 printing externally moderated examination papers <strong>and</strong> related security<br />

arrangements;<br />

6.1.3 preparing timetables for <strong>examinations</strong> <strong>and</strong> making appropriate arrangements for<br />

c<strong>and</strong>idates to sit <strong>examinations</strong> held in central locations;<br />

6.1.4 appointing invigilators on the recommendation <strong>of</strong> Faculties;<br />

6.1.5 presenting results to SPACE/RDC <strong>and</strong>, as appropriate, the Academic St<strong>and</strong>ards<br />

<strong>and</strong> Quality Assurance Committee;<br />

6.1.6 maintaining central records <strong>of</strong> marks <strong>and</strong> results;<br />

6.1.7 issuing <strong>of</strong> certificates to c<strong>and</strong>idates gaining awards <strong>of</strong> the University.<br />

The University Examinations Officer will advise Faculties on any matters concerned with<br />

<strong>examinations</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>assessment</strong> generally.<br />

6.2 Each Faculty shall have a designated Examinations Officer who will be responsible to the<br />

Dean <strong>of</strong> Faculty. In a large or complex Faculty there may be two or more Examinations<br />

Officers. Their roles may be split in relation to first degree programmes <strong>and</strong> postgraduate<br />

taught programmes or, in the case <strong>of</strong> modular programmes, the role may be even more<br />

disparate. In all cases, it is important for responsibilities to be clearly defined <strong>and</strong> the<br />

individuals clearly identified.<br />

6.3 Subject to the overall responsibility <strong>of</strong> the Dean <strong>of</strong> Faculty, the responsibilities <strong>of</strong> the<br />

Faculty Examinations Officer(s) will normally include:<br />

6.3.1 preparing draft examination timetables <strong>and</strong> liaising with the University<br />

Examinations Officer;<br />

6.3.2 arranging the preparation <strong>of</strong> draft examination papers;<br />

6.3.3 arranging for the production <strong>of</strong> camera-ready copy <strong>of</strong> externally assessed papers<br />

<strong>and</strong> its delivery to the Academic Registry;<br />

6.3.4 arranging for the checking <strong>of</strong> such papers when printed;<br />

6.3.5 arranging for the printing <strong>and</strong> secure storage <strong>of</strong> examination papers which are<br />

not externally assessed;<br />

6.3.6 proposing the names <strong>of</strong> invigilators for the Faculty's <strong>examinations</strong>;<br />

6.3.7 arranging for papers etc to be marked in accordance with the agreed time<br />

schedule;<br />

6.3.8 preparing mark sheets for meetings <strong>of</strong> the Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners <strong>and</strong> recording<br />

decisions thereon;<br />

6.3.9 conveying mark sheets <strong>and</strong> examiners' recommendations to the Academic<br />

Registry;<br />

6.3.10 retaining records <strong>of</strong> students' results;<br />

6.3.11 informing c<strong>and</strong>idates <strong>of</strong> the results <strong>of</strong> <strong>examinations</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>assessment</strong>s.<br />

The Faculty Examinations Officer(s) will be the principal point <strong>of</strong> contact with the<br />

Academic Registry on any matter regarding the Faculty's <strong>examinations</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>other</strong><br />

<strong>assessment</strong>s.<br />

10


7 Special Assessment Needs<br />

7.1 The Director <strong>of</strong> Studies should be aware <strong>of</strong> any declared special learning <strong>and</strong> / or<br />

<strong>assessment</strong> needs <strong>of</strong> individual students in relation to the programme <strong>of</strong> study under<br />

his/her direction, for seeking appropriate advice on ways <strong>of</strong> addressing <strong>and</strong> resolving those<br />

needs <strong>and</strong> for advising students <strong>of</strong> the procedures for applying for special examination<br />

arrangements.<br />

7.2 A Special Assessment Arrangements Committee is in place:<br />

• to consider the requirements with respect to <strong>examinations</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>other</strong> <strong>forms</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>assessment</strong> for students with special needs;<br />

• to consult Faculties <strong>of</strong> the University regarding their students’ special needs;<br />

• to decide what special arrangements should be made for the <strong>assessment</strong> <strong>of</strong> each<br />

student, so that, as far as possible, he or she is neither advantaged or<br />

disadvantaged in comparison with <strong>other</strong> students.<br />

7.3 Students will be invited to make known to the Committee any documented or confirmed<br />

special needs by a published date in the first half <strong>of</strong> each semester. The appropriate<br />

procedure <strong>and</strong> designated dates will be published in the University’s Student H<strong>and</strong>book<br />

<strong>and</strong> in all Programme H<strong>and</strong>books (Academic St<strong>and</strong>ards Guidelines, Section D).<br />

The period <strong>of</strong> notice may be waived in unforeseen <strong>and</strong> exceptional circumstances.<br />

[The University’s Policy on Special Examination Arrangements is set out in<br />

Academic St<strong>and</strong>ards Guidelines, Section D]<br />

8 Setting <strong>of</strong> Examination Length, Papers, Marking <strong>and</strong> Moderation<br />

Formula for maximum examination length (written examination)<br />

8.1 The University sets a maximum limit for written examination length. The scheme gives a<br />

maximum <strong>of</strong> 12 hours <strong>of</strong> exams per year for a student taking 20-credit or 30-credit<br />

modules. Therefore, programmes should use the following formula:<br />

30- credit module = maximum <strong>of</strong> 3 hour exam<br />

20, 15 <strong>and</strong> 10-credit = maximum <strong>of</strong> 2 hour exam<br />

The examination length stated should be inclusive <strong>of</strong> ‘reading time’.<br />

8.2 The maximum time allowed should reflect the possibility that the <strong>assessment</strong> will be very<br />

largely based on the final exam. Broadly speaking, the intensity <strong>of</strong> teaching <strong>and</strong> learning<br />

will be the same, regardless <strong>of</strong> the size <strong>of</strong> the module, so that in principal a 20-credit<br />

module may have 2/3 the learning outcomes <strong>of</strong> a 30-credit module. There is a certain<br />

minimum "granularity" <strong>of</strong> an <strong>assessment</strong>, which argues against very short exams, even for<br />

10-credit modules.<br />

8.3 Associate Deans have authority to authorise exceptions to this level, where there is an<br />

academic necessity (not just an academic argument, or preference). Requests for a<br />

reduction in written examination length should be made via a programme’s Board <strong>of</strong><br />

Studies <strong>and</strong> Associate Deans should report any proposed changes to the Quality &<br />

St<strong>and</strong>ards Subcommittee.<br />

Preparation <strong>of</strong> Examination Papers<br />

11


8.4 The method <strong>of</strong> setting examination papers will vary between Faculties. For some<br />

courses/modules each paper may be set separately by one or two people while, for <strong>other</strong>s,<br />

it may be appropriate to hold a meeting <strong>of</strong> the Examiners to assemble the papers. It is<br />

essential that each complete draft is read by someone <strong>other</strong> than the setter(s) to<br />

ensure that the rubric is correct <strong>and</strong> that the questions are unambiguous <strong>and</strong> in<br />

good English.<br />

8.5 Draft papers for externally-assessed <strong>examinations</strong> must be sent to the external examiner(s)<br />

in adequate time for them to comment on them <strong>and</strong> for any disagreements to be resolved<br />

before the papers need to be printed. An external examiner should receive all the draft<br />

examination papers unless the external examiner has indicated to the Faculty that he/she<br />

wishes to receive only those papers for which he/she has a particular responsibility. When<br />

the answers to questions will be divided into distinct <strong>section</strong>s, a marking scheme should<br />

be sent with the draft papers (<strong>and</strong>, where appropriate, sample solutions or guidance on<br />

expectations) to the external examiner(s).<br />

8.6 The University Examinations Officer will inform Faculties <strong>of</strong> the dates by which papers<br />

should reach him/her for printing. The large volume <strong>of</strong> papers to be printed for the<br />

University <strong>and</strong> the Associated Institutions requires that these deadlines are<br />

observed. The University Examinations Officer should be informed immediately if there<br />

are problems with the compilation <strong>of</strong> particular papers.<br />

8.7 Faculties must make appropriate arrangements for the secure storage <strong>of</strong> draft examination<br />

papers <strong>and</strong> for their safe delivery to the University Examinations Officer. The University<br />

Examinations Officer is thereafter responsible for security arrangements relating to the<br />

printing <strong>and</strong> storage <strong>of</strong> papers.<br />

8.8 The University Library no longer retains printed copies <strong>of</strong> past examination papers, but<br />

makes them available in digital format. Faculties are required to submit all examination<br />

papers electronically to the Library ensuring any supplementary material provided to the<br />

c<strong>and</strong>idate at the time <strong>of</strong> the examination is also digitised <strong>and</strong> submitted with the paper. It<br />

is the responsibility <strong>of</strong> the Faculty to ensure that papers are uploaded <strong>and</strong> that precautions<br />

similar to those pertaining to printed papers are in place to ensure that <strong>examinations</strong><br />

papers are not released publicly before all c<strong>and</strong>idates have sat the paper.<br />

Marking<br />

8.9 The University operates a policy <strong>of</strong> anonymous marking for all written <strong>examinations</strong> (with<br />

effect from 1 September 1996) the details <strong>of</strong> which are set out in Appendix F3. Faculties<br />

are encouraged to consider anonymous marking <strong>of</strong> coursework, where possible <strong>and</strong><br />

practicable.<br />

8.10 The Faculty’s policy <strong>and</strong> practices with regard to marking should be made known to its<br />

internal <strong>and</strong> external examiner(s) alike.<br />

12


8.11 In February 2011 the University Senate approved generic grade descriptors for<br />

undergraduate programmes (Appendix F2). The principles embodied within the<br />

University Grade Descriptors should be a feature <strong>of</strong> assignment-specific marking schemes.<br />

These include:<br />

• clarity as to what constitutes work that represents the whole range <strong>of</strong> available<br />

marks (0% -100%),<br />

• the objectivity <strong>of</strong> the marking schemes, their alignment with the University Grade<br />

Descriptors, their match to the learning outcomes that are being assessed, <strong>and</strong><br />

their relevance to the form <strong>of</strong> <strong>assessment</strong> selected.<br />

Students should be made aware <strong>of</strong> University Grade Descriptors <strong>and</strong> how these relate to<br />

marking schemes for their assignments. It will be essential that, however the University<br />

Grade Descriptors are developed into marking schemes, staff are able to explain these<br />

marking schemes to students in discussions early in the students’ academic careers.<br />

The design <strong>of</strong> challenging assignments (beyond essays <strong>and</strong> exams that test knowledge<br />

recall) must happen alongside the use <strong>of</strong> the University Grade Descriptors <strong>and</strong> clearly<br />

aligned discipline-specific marking schemes since if there is no opportunity within the<br />

assignment for a student to demonstrate their higher level ability then this too will limit<br />

their ability to access marks at the higher end <strong>of</strong> the range.<br />

8.12 The marking <strong>of</strong> a written examination script must not be left entirely to one person. For<br />

examination answers in the form <strong>of</strong> calculations or short notes on a number <strong>of</strong> separate<br />

topics it is sufficient for a second person to check that all parts have been marked <strong>and</strong> that<br />

the marks have been totalled correctly.<br />

8.13 It is a requirement that, for essay-type answers, a sample <strong>of</strong> between 10% <strong>and</strong> 25% <strong>of</strong><br />

scripts (depending on numbers), as a minimum, should be second-marked by an<strong>other</strong><br />

internal marker (although it is desirable that all such answers are double-marked where<br />

practicable). The sample should be representative <strong>of</strong> the range <strong>of</strong> marks <strong>and</strong> include all<br />

borderline fails.<br />

8.14 All projects/dissertations must be double marked “blind” by internal examiners (i.e., that<br />

the marks <strong>of</strong> the first marker are not made known to the second marker in advance).<br />

Marking “blind” should not be confused with anonymous marking (ref. 8.6 above).<br />

8.15 Faculties /Departments should put in place a reliable system for ensuring consistency <strong>of</strong><br />

marking across the Faculty/Department. Criteria for marking must be stated clearly for the<br />

benefit <strong>of</strong> students, internal <strong>and</strong> external markers. This is particularly important where<br />

individual projects, dissertations or theses are concerned since the topics may be diverse.<br />

If, for any given assignment or examination, a number <strong>of</strong> marks are to be awarded<br />

specifically for spelling <strong>and</strong> grammar, the Faculty must make this known to all students in<br />

advance <strong>of</strong> the <strong>assessment</strong>.<br />

8.16 Faculties /Departments must make efforts to ensure uniformity <strong>of</strong> marking across the<br />

range <strong>of</strong> topics. Faculties /Departments should also put in place a mechanism for the<br />

reconciliation <strong>of</strong> marks in cases where internal examiners have recorded very different<br />

marks for the same work, before projects/dissertations are referred to the external<br />

examiner(s) for moderation.<br />

Illegible Scripts<br />

8.17 Occasionally an examiner may be presented with a script which is illegible. In such<br />

instances the following guidance should be used:<br />

8.17.1 the responsibility for determining that a script is illegible resides with the Board<br />

<strong>of</strong> Examiners or through consultation with the Chair <strong>of</strong> the Board <strong>and</strong> the<br />

external examiner(s), never an individual examiner;<br />

13


8.17.2 at its discretion, the Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners may require the c<strong>and</strong>idate, at his/her<br />

own expense, to reproduce the answer in legible form under such conditions <strong>and</strong><br />

within a timescale specified by the Board;<br />

8.17.3 the original script should be retained by the examiner(s) for the purposes <strong>of</strong><br />

comparison;<br />

8.17.4 the Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners has discretion to determine the appropriate course <strong>of</strong><br />

action to be followed, having due regard to: (i) the overall circumstances <strong>and</strong> (ii)<br />

the timescale;<br />

8.17.5 notwithst<strong>and</strong>ing the foregoing clauses, the Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners shall take into<br />

consideration the particular circumstances <strong>of</strong> students who are known to have<br />

special needs <strong>and</strong> may, in cases <strong>of</strong> doubt, advise a student whose script is<br />

deemed illegible to seek pr<strong>of</strong>essional help.<br />

External Moderation<br />

8.18 Faculty Examinations Officers should ascertain from the external examiner(s) in advance<br />

whether he/she wishes to moderate scripts or coursework “blind”. Very <strong>of</strong>ten, however,<br />

the external examiner(s) will wish to underst<strong>and</strong> from remarks on the marked script or<br />

separate sheet the basis on which the internal examiners(s) has awarded the marks.<br />

Coursework may have to be photocopied or temporarily returned to the Faculty to be<br />

available for the external examiner for moderation.<br />

8.19 The external examiner should not be expected to act as a second marker per se or to remark<br />

all examination scripts. Except where the number <strong>of</strong> c<strong>and</strong>idates is very small, the<br />

external examiner will <strong>of</strong>ten moderate only a sample <strong>of</strong> scripts; this sample should include<br />

c<strong>and</strong>idates assessed by internal examiners at the top, middle <strong>and</strong> bottom <strong>of</strong> the range <strong>and</strong><br />

should ordinarily include the scripts <strong>of</strong> c<strong>and</strong>idates who are likely to fail <strong>and</strong> those <strong>of</strong><br />

c<strong>and</strong>idates potentially eligible for the award <strong>of</strong> first class honours or a distinction. If the<br />

external examiner chooses not to receive all the scripts, the nature <strong>and</strong> method <strong>of</strong><br />

selection <strong>of</strong> the sample should be agreed with him/her in advance.<br />

8.20 It is not expected that an external examiner will wish to moderate all assessed coursework<br />

but a selection <strong>of</strong> coursework which makes a significant contribution to the programme<br />

should be available for moderation by the external examiner. The method <strong>of</strong> selection<br />

should be discussed <strong>and</strong> agreed with the external examiner in advance.<br />

It is not unusual for an external examiner to look at a considerable number <strong>of</strong><br />

projects/dissertations, however.<br />

8.21 Programme h<strong>and</strong>books may stipulate that some or all <strong>of</strong> the c<strong>and</strong>idates will be examined<br />

orally <strong>and</strong> / or by performance. If only some c<strong>and</strong>idates are so examined, the external<br />

examiner should be involved in determining the method <strong>of</strong> selection. Even though no oral<br />

or performance-based examination may be specified in the Programme H<strong>and</strong>book, the<br />

General Regulations do provide for any c<strong>and</strong>idate to be examined orally in addition to the<br />

methods <strong>of</strong> <strong>assessment</strong> specified <strong>and</strong> at the discretion <strong>of</strong> the Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners.<br />

14


9 Assessment <strong>and</strong> Feedback to Students<br />

9.1 It is a requirement, when determining the <strong>assessment</strong> requirements for a programme,<br />

that:<br />

• all modules should include at least one opportunity to provide students with<br />

evaluative feedback on their work from which they can judge how they have<br />

performed <strong>and</strong> how they can improve;<br />

• students are provided in advance <strong>of</strong> undertaking an assignment or <strong>other</strong> form <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>assessment</strong> with the criteria on which their work will be assessed [Guidelines on<br />

good practice in relation to determining <strong>and</strong> using <strong>assessment</strong> criteria are set out<br />

in Appendix F1].<br />

• that <strong>assessment</strong> <strong>of</strong> any module by formal examination shall be restricted to a<br />

maximum <strong>of</strong> 80% <strong>of</strong> the total marks for a given academic level;<br />

9.2 It is also a requirement that:<br />

• for formative assignments <strong>and</strong> exercises on which students would normally expect<br />

to receive feedback, that the module/programme documents <strong>and</strong> relevant<br />

<strong>assessment</strong> guides should specify how long after submission the students will<br />

receive such feedback. Feedback would be given to students within 4 weeks <strong>of</strong><br />

submission <strong>and</strong> this normally would be at least one week before the submission<br />

date for subsequent <strong>and</strong> related assignments.<br />

10 Consideration <strong>and</strong> Promulgation <strong>of</strong> Results<br />

10.1 The Faculty Examination Officer(s) will prepare a mark sheet. The format will vary from one<br />

programme to an<strong>other</strong> <strong>and</strong> the mark sheet may be prepared by computer or manually.<br />

The mark sheet should serve both to provide the Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners with full information<br />

about each c<strong>and</strong>idate <strong>and</strong> to provide a record in future years (for providing references,<br />

transcripts etc). It is best if all marks are expressed as percentages for easy comparison; the<br />

weighting <strong>of</strong> each mark in the overall total should be clearly indicated. Column headings<br />

should be clear <strong>and</strong>, if abbreviations are used to save space, a key should be provided.<br />

See also Examination Office Guidance on the Preparation <strong>of</strong> Results.<br />

10.2 The Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners will consider each c<strong>and</strong>idate in turn. Any agreed change in marks<br />

should be entered on the mark sheet by crossing out the original entry <strong>and</strong> inserting the<br />

new figure. The result for each c<strong>and</strong>idate should be entered when agreed. The Board <strong>of</strong><br />

Examiners may wish to take factors <strong>other</strong> than the total mark into account in determining<br />

whether a c<strong>and</strong>idate has passed or gained a certain class but it is important that equal<br />

consideration is given to all c<strong>and</strong>idates near the same borderline. The Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners<br />

has a duty to consider any mitigating or extenuating circumstances which relate to either<br />

examination or <strong>other</strong> <strong>forms</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>assessment</strong> which may have impaired a c<strong>and</strong>idate's<br />

performance (see Section F <strong>of</strong> the Regulations). The Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners must also consider<br />

the situation <strong>of</strong> c<strong>and</strong>idates who were absent from an examination [including those who<br />

were entitled to resit but who failed to do so] <strong>and</strong> make recommendations. When all<br />

recommendations have been decided for all c<strong>and</strong>idates, the Chair should sign the mark<br />

sheet, as should the external examiner(s) in the case <strong>of</strong> externally assessed <strong>examinations</strong>.<br />

10.3 The Dean <strong>of</strong> Faculty is responsible for informing c<strong>and</strong>idates <strong>of</strong> the results <strong>of</strong> <strong>examinations</strong><br />

<strong>and</strong> <strong>other</strong> <strong>forms</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>assessment</strong>. This may be done before the results have been approved<br />

by the Senate Progression And Conferment Executive [<strong>and</strong> when awards are to be made],<br />

provided the list or letters make it clear that the results are provisional <strong>and</strong> may be subject<br />

to change.<br />

15


10.4 A list <strong>of</strong> the recommendations <strong>of</strong> the Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners, together with a signed copy <strong>of</strong><br />

the mark sheet, should be brought to the University Examinations Officer as soon as<br />

possible after the conclusion <strong>of</strong> the meeting. When awards are to be made, the<br />

recommendations are entered into the computer <strong>and</strong> the lists provided for the Senate<br />

Progression And Conferment Executive <strong>and</strong> Senate are printed by computer. This ensures<br />

that the University records, the Gazette <strong>and</strong> the certificates are the same but does mean<br />

the computer lists require careful checking by Faculties. The processing <strong>and</strong> storage <strong>of</strong><br />

c<strong>and</strong>idates' marks by computer or <strong>other</strong> means must accord with the provisions <strong>of</strong> the<br />

Data Protection Act 1998.<br />

10.5 Each c<strong>and</strong>idate shall be told his or her marks on a confidential basis if he or she so<br />

requests. In accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998 students may, if they wish, be<br />

shown their marked examination scripts. Scripts may not be returned to c<strong>and</strong>idates on a<br />

permanent basis.<br />

11 Retention <strong>of</strong> Examination Scripts / Dissertations<br />

11.1 Faculties must make arrangements to retain marked examination scripts for at least 12<br />

months after they have been considered by the Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners. Scripts should be<br />

retained securely (e.g. in a locked filing cabinet) <strong>and</strong> access accorded only to academic <strong>and</strong><br />

<strong>other</strong> staff with a legitimate right to consult them.<br />

11.2 In the event that a student submits a formal appeal to the University, Faculties should<br />

retain copies <strong>of</strong> the appellant’s <strong>examinations</strong> scripts, coursework, dissertation or thesis,<br />

<strong>and</strong> <strong>other</strong> documents until the appeal has run its course.<br />

11.3 Faculties are advised, in the approach to Institutional or <strong>other</strong> form <strong>of</strong> Audit by the QAA,<br />

to an accreditation visit by a pr<strong>of</strong>essional body or to some <strong>other</strong> form <strong>of</strong> review to ensure<br />

that they have available a representative sample <strong>of</strong> assessed work across the full marking<br />

spectrum.<br />

11.4 Other than 10.2 <strong>and</strong> 10.3 above, the University does not require Faculties to retain copies<br />

<strong>of</strong> undergraduate dissertations, project reports or <strong>other</strong> <strong>forms</strong> <strong>of</strong> substantive coursework.<br />

11.5 The University Library will only retain Master’s dissertations, with the exception <strong>of</strong> M.Phil<br />

dissertations for a period <strong>of</strong> eight years. Faculties wishing to retain theses for a longer<br />

period than this should do so on a Departmental basis.<br />

11.6 Faculties are required to adhere to the principles <strong>of</strong> the Data Protection Act 1998, viz:<br />

11.6.1 personal data shall be processed fairly <strong>and</strong> lawfully;<br />

11.6.2 personal data shall be obtained only for one or more specified <strong>and</strong> lawful<br />

purposes, <strong>and</strong> shall not be further processed in any manner incompatible with<br />

that purpose or those purposes;<br />

11.6.3 personal data shall be adequate, relevant <strong>and</strong> not excessive in relation to the<br />

purpose or purposes for which they are processed;<br />

11.6.4 personal data shall be accurate <strong>and</strong>, where necessary, kept up to date;<br />

11.6.5 personal data processed for any purpose shall not be kept for longer than is<br />

necessary for that purpose or those purposes;<br />

11.6.6 personal data shall be processed in accordance with the rights <strong>of</strong> data subjects<br />

under the Act;<br />

11.6.7 appropriate technical <strong>and</strong> organisational measures shall be taken against<br />

unauthorised or unlawful processing <strong>of</strong> personal data <strong>and</strong> against accidental loss<br />

or destruction <strong>of</strong>, or damage to, personal data;<br />

16


11.6.8 personal data shall not be transferred to a country or territory outside the<br />

European Economic Area unless that country or territory ensures an adequate<br />

level <strong>of</strong> protection for the rights <strong>and</strong> freedoms <strong>of</strong> data subjects in relation to the<br />

processing <strong>of</strong> personal data.<br />

Approved by Senate: October 1992<br />

Last Revised: July 2011<br />

17


Appendix F1: Guidelines on Good Practice In Relation To<br />

Determining <strong>and</strong> Using Assessment Criteria<br />

The key question when setting an assignment should be “What, exactly, do I want the students<br />

to demonstrate about their learning in this assignment” Careful consideration <strong>of</strong> this question<br />

should ensure alignment between the assignment tasks <strong>and</strong> the intended module outcomes,<br />

<strong>and</strong> facilitate the development <strong>of</strong> clear <strong>assessment</strong> criteria that may be made explicit for the<br />

benefit <strong>of</strong> students.<br />

Assessment criteria specify what a student must be able to do to achieve a pass, or to achieve a<br />

particular grade. The use <strong>of</strong> appropriate criteria facilitates the provision <strong>of</strong> feedback to students<br />

<strong>and</strong> may also link to a self-<strong>assessment</strong> cover sheet where the students indicate how their<br />

answers seek to meet the dem<strong>and</strong>s <strong>of</strong> the assignment.<br />

Supposing that you decide that the following areas need to be evidenced (the particular traits<br />

will, <strong>of</strong> course, differ according to the subject area <strong>and</strong> type <strong>of</strong> <strong>assessment</strong>):<br />

• Knowledge <strong>and</strong> underst<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>of</strong> particular content<br />

• Critical analysis <strong>of</strong> conflicting evidence<br />

• A range <strong>of</strong> sources used appropriately<br />

• A well-structured argument<br />

• Language <strong>and</strong> expression<br />

These may be incorporated into a matrix which shows how well each <strong>of</strong> these traits is<br />

demonstrated using a scale from 1-5.<br />

Assignments can be graded by scoring them for each factor on the five point scale. Overall<br />

percentages are derived by applying a weighting to the factor relative to its importance, so that<br />

the total possible marks are 100. So, for example, critical analysis <strong>of</strong> conflicting evidence may be<br />

weighted x5 while underst<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>of</strong> relevant content is weighted x3, <strong>and</strong> so on. Again, the<br />

relative weighting <strong>of</strong> categories will depend on the level at which the student is studying.<br />

A sample matrix is shown below 2 :<br />

Knowledge Critical Sources Argument Language<br />

1 Little or no<br />

evidence <strong>of</strong><br />

familiarity with<br />

content <strong>of</strong><br />

module<br />

Little or no<br />

evidence <strong>of</strong> critical<br />

evaluation <strong>of</strong><br />

material<br />

Sources not<br />

used to<br />

support<br />

substantive<br />

assertions or<br />

argument<br />

Either no<br />

discernible, or<br />

seriously<br />

flawed<br />

academic<br />

argument<br />

The<br />

assignment<br />

has<br />

unacceptable<br />

failings in<br />

structure <strong>and</strong> /<br />

or clarity <strong>of</strong><br />

written<br />

expression<br />

2<br />

This draws on an example provided by James Atherton, De Montfort University.<br />

18


2 Evidence that<br />

relevant module<br />

content is broadly<br />

understood, but<br />

with significant<br />

gaps or<br />

misapprehensions<br />

Evidence <strong>of</strong> limited<br />

critical evaluation<br />

in some areas,<br />

with some lost<br />

opportunities or<br />

misunderst<strong>and</strong>ings<br />

Limited <strong>and</strong><br />

uncritical use<br />

<strong>of</strong> a restricted<br />

range <strong>of</strong><br />

sources<br />

Argument is<br />

sometimes<br />

trivial,<br />

confused or<br />

flawed<br />

The<br />

assignment<br />

has failings in<br />

structure <strong>and</strong> /<br />

or clarity <strong>of</strong><br />

written<br />

expression,<br />

which impair<br />

its capacity to<br />

communicate<br />

3 Evidence that<br />

relevant module<br />

content is<br />

adequately<br />

understood, but<br />

with some gaps or<br />

misapprehensions<br />

4 Evidence <strong>of</strong><br />

extensive<br />

knowledge <strong>of</strong> the<br />

relevant module<br />

content, without<br />

major<br />

misapprehensions<br />

5 Evidence <strong>of</strong><br />

superior,<br />

comprehensive<br />

<strong>and</strong> deep<br />

knowledge <strong>of</strong> the<br />

relevant module<br />

content<br />

Evidence <strong>of</strong> a<br />

general critical<br />

stance, although<br />

some material not<br />

evaluated<br />

Evidence <strong>of</strong> good<br />

critical<br />

appreciation <strong>and</strong><br />

evaluation <strong>of</strong><br />

relevant theory<br />

<strong>and</strong> research <strong>and</strong> a<br />

systematic attempt<br />

to relate it to the<br />

topic<br />

Evidence <strong>of</strong><br />

thorough critical<br />

appreciation <strong>and</strong><br />

evaluation <strong>of</strong><br />

relevant theory<br />

<strong>and</strong> research <strong>and</strong> a<br />

systematic <strong>and</strong><br />

creative attempt to<br />

relate it to the<br />

topic<br />

Use <strong>of</strong> a range<br />

<strong>of</strong> appropriate<br />

sources, but<br />

without critical<br />

evaluation, or<br />

missing some<br />

significant<br />

items<br />

Use <strong>of</strong> a wide<br />

range <strong>of</strong><br />

appropriate<br />

sources with<br />

some critical<br />

awareness <strong>of</strong><br />

their status<br />

<strong>and</strong> relevance<br />

Use <strong>of</strong> a wide<br />

range <strong>of</strong><br />

appropriate<br />

sources,<br />

indicating<br />

personal<br />

research, <strong>and</strong><br />

with full critical<br />

awareness <strong>of</strong><br />

their status<br />

<strong>and</strong> relevance<br />

Argument is<br />

let down by<br />

occasional<br />

confusion or<br />

flaws<br />

Argument is<br />

sound <strong>and</strong><br />

substantial,<br />

although not<br />

original<br />

Argument is<br />

sound <strong>and</strong><br />

substantial,<br />

with significant<br />

elements <strong>of</strong><br />

originality<br />

While the<br />

assignment<br />

has some<br />

failings in<br />

structure <strong>and</strong> /<br />

or clarity <strong>of</strong><br />

written<br />

expression,<br />

these do not<br />

impair its<br />

capacity to<br />

communicate<br />

A generally<br />

well-structured<br />

<strong>and</strong> expressed<br />

assignment,<br />

which<br />

communicates<br />

clearly<br />

An assignment<br />

whose clear<br />

structure <strong>and</strong><br />

expression<br />

significantly<br />

enhances its<br />

argument<br />

There is freeware available (see, for example, http://www.circle-<strong>of</strong>-excellence.com – Free<br />

Downloads – MarkThis Pro 3.0) which will do the calculations for you <strong>and</strong> also generate a<br />

student feedback sheet which may be further individualised by providing each student with a<br />

comment indicating what they need to do next to improve.<br />

19


Appendix F2: University <strong>of</strong> Surrey, Undergraduate Grade Descriptors<br />

Comm<strong>and</strong> <strong>of</strong> the Subject<br />

90-100 • Demonstrates a breadth <strong>and</strong> depth <strong>of</strong> substantive<br />

knowledge that is exceptional <strong>and</strong> informed by<br />

the highest level <strong>of</strong> scholarship<br />

• Excellent integration <strong>of</strong> the full range <strong>of</strong><br />

appropriate principles, theories, evidence <strong>and</strong><br />

techniques<br />

• Goes beyond the material displaying exceptional<br />

flair in tackling issues identified<br />

Subject Specific Skills <strong>and</strong><br />

Practices<br />

• Exceptional application <strong>of</strong> theoretical<br />

<strong>and</strong> technical knowledge to achieve<br />

learning outcomes<br />

• Exceptional pr<strong>of</strong>essional presentation<br />

using an appropriate range <strong>of</strong><br />

resources <strong>and</strong> reflecting pr<strong>of</strong>essional<br />

norms.<br />

Scholarly <strong>and</strong> Pr<strong>of</strong>essional Skills <strong>and</strong> Attitudes<br />

Work that influences how academics <strong>and</strong> students think about their<br />

discipline through:<br />

• Being original within the discipline on the basis <strong>of</strong> its excellence;<br />

• Achieving the highest level <strong>of</strong> compelling, coherent <strong>and</strong> concise<br />

argument attainable within the level <strong>of</strong> study;<br />

• Using a full range <strong>of</strong> high quality sources to inform but not dominate<br />

the argument<br />

80-89 • Demonstrates a breadth <strong>and</strong> depth <strong>of</strong> substantive<br />

knowledge that is comprehensive, accurate,<br />

relevant <strong>and</strong> informed by advanced scholarship<br />

• Excellent integration <strong>of</strong> a full range <strong>of</strong> appropriate<br />

principles, theories, evidence <strong>and</strong> techniques<br />

• Goes beyond the material with excellent<br />

conceptualisation which is original, innovative<br />

<strong>and</strong>/or insightful<br />

70-79 • Informed by a breadth <strong>and</strong> depth <strong>of</strong> substantive<br />

knowledge that is comprehensive, accurate,<br />

relevant with an awareness <strong>of</strong> advanced<br />

scholarship<br />

• Very good integration <strong>of</strong> a full range <strong>of</strong><br />

appropriate principles, theories, evidence <strong>and</strong><br />

techniques<br />

• Goes beyond the material with very good<br />

conceptualisation which is <strong>of</strong>ten original,<br />

innovative <strong>and</strong>/or insightful<br />

60-69 • Demonstrates a breadth <strong>and</strong> depth <strong>of</strong> substantive<br />

knowledge that is comprehensive <strong>and</strong> accurate<br />

• Good integration <strong>of</strong> a range <strong>of</strong> appropriate<br />

principles, theories, evidence <strong>and</strong> techniques<br />

• Some good insight into the material<br />

• Excellent <strong>and</strong> original application <strong>of</strong><br />

theoretical <strong>and</strong> technical knowledge<br />

to achieve learning outcomes<br />

• Excellent pr<strong>of</strong>essional presentation<br />

using an appropriate range <strong>of</strong><br />

resources <strong>and</strong> reflecting pr<strong>of</strong>essional<br />

norms.<br />

• Consistently applies theoretical <strong>and</strong><br />

technical knowledge to achieve<br />

learning outcomes with some<br />

originality<br />

• Very good pr<strong>of</strong>essional presentation<br />

using an appropriate range <strong>of</strong><br />

resources <strong>and</strong> reflecting pr<strong>of</strong>essional<br />

norms.<br />

• Clear evidence <strong>of</strong> the application <strong>of</strong><br />

theoretical <strong>and</strong> technical knowledge<br />

to achieve learning outcomes with<br />

few obvious flaws<br />

• Pr<strong>of</strong>essional presentation using a<br />

good range <strong>of</strong> resources <strong>and</strong><br />

reflecting pr<strong>of</strong>essional norms.<br />

Work that has real potential to influence how academics <strong>and</strong> students<br />

may think about their discipline through:<br />

• Being original on the basis <strong>of</strong> its excellence in the context <strong>of</strong> the level<br />

<strong>of</strong> study;<br />

• A compelling, coherent <strong>and</strong> concise argument;<br />

• Drawing on a full range <strong>of</strong> high quality sources.<br />

Work that has some potential to influence how academics <strong>and</strong> students<br />

may think about their discipline through:<br />

• Some originality on the basis <strong>of</strong> its excellence in the context <strong>of</strong> the<br />

level <strong>of</strong> study;<br />

• Arguments which are coherent, concise <strong>and</strong> frequently compelling;<br />

• Drawing on a wide range <strong>of</strong> high quality sources.<br />

Work that critically engages with current thinking in the discipline<br />

through:<br />

• Clear differentiation between the quality <strong>and</strong> appropriateness <strong>of</strong><br />

sources used;<br />

• Arguments which are coherent <strong>and</strong> concise <strong>and</strong> <strong>of</strong>fer robust<br />

conclusions;<br />

• The development <strong>of</strong> a good analytical model<br />

20


50-59 • Demonstrates an adequate breadth <strong>and</strong> depth <strong>of</strong><br />

substantive knowledge but with only a few errors<br />

or omissions<br />

• Demonstrates an adequate underst<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>of</strong> a<br />

range <strong>of</strong> appropriate principles, theories, evidence<br />

<strong>and</strong> techniques<br />

• Shows some ability to critically engage with the<br />

material<br />

40-49 • Incomplete breadth <strong>and</strong> depth <strong>of</strong> substantive<br />

knowledge with some errors or omissions<br />

• Demonstrates an awareness <strong>of</strong> appropriate<br />

principles, theories, evidence <strong>and</strong> techniques<br />

• Limited <strong>and</strong> underdeveloped critical engagement<br />

with the material<br />

30-39 • Little relevant knowledge, which is minimal in its<br />

breadth <strong>and</strong> depth with major errors or omissions<br />

• Minimal awareness <strong>of</strong> appropriate principles,<br />

theories, evidence <strong>and</strong> techniques<br />

• Fails to demonstrate sufficient critical engagement<br />

with the material<br />

20-29 • Does not demonstrate even a basic underst<strong>and</strong>ing<br />

<strong>of</strong> the subject matter<br />

• Insufficient awareness <strong>of</strong> appropriate principles,<br />

theories, evidence <strong>and</strong> techniques<br />

• Little evidence <strong>of</strong> critical engagement with the<br />

material<br />

10-19 • Demonstrates confusion over the subject matter<br />

• Little awareness <strong>of</strong> appropriate principles,<br />

theories, evidence <strong>and</strong> techniques<br />

• No evidence <strong>of</strong> critical engagement with the<br />

material<br />

• Adequate application <strong>of</strong> theoretical<br />

<strong>and</strong> technical knowledge to achieve<br />

learning outcomes although with<br />

some obvious flaws<br />

• Presentation which adequately<br />

reflects relevant pr<strong>of</strong>essional norms<br />

• Demonstrates limited ability to put<br />

theory into practice<br />

• Demonstrates limited technical ability<br />

but lacking theoretical <strong>and</strong> reflective<br />

insights<br />

• Presentation with reflects<br />

pr<strong>of</strong>essional practice in a limited<br />

manner<br />

• Demonstrates a minimal ability to<br />

meet learning outcomes in the grasp<br />

<strong>of</strong> both theory <strong>and</strong> technical<br />

knowledge<br />

• Presentation which displays little<br />

more than cursory attention to<br />

pr<strong>of</strong>essional norms<br />

• Lacks any real application <strong>of</strong> skills to<br />

meet learning outcomes<br />

• Fails to demonstrate any substantive<br />

meeting <strong>of</strong> learning outcomes<br />

• No real attention to the disciplinary<br />

norms <strong>of</strong> presentation<br />

• Fails to demonstrate the use <strong>of</strong> skills<br />

to meet learning outcomes<br />

• Fails to demonstrate any substantive<br />

meeting <strong>of</strong> learning outcomes<br />

• No real attention to the disciplinary<br />

norms <strong>of</strong> presentation<br />

Work that accurately reports on current thinking in the discipline through:<br />

• The repetition <strong>of</strong>, rather than critical engagement with, limited<br />

sources;<br />

• Adequate differentiation between the quality <strong>and</strong> appropriateness <strong>of</strong><br />

sources used;<br />

• Drawing adequate conclusions which do not always fully reflect the<br />

complexity <strong>of</strong> the subject matter;<br />

• An adequate if unsophisticated analytical model.<br />

Work that <strong>of</strong>fers a limited underst<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>of</strong> thinking in the discipline<br />

through:<br />

• Limited attention paid to the quality, range <strong>and</strong> appropriateness <strong>of</strong><br />

sources used;<br />

• Poorly informed opinion led work which lacks a clear evidence base;<br />

• A limited <strong>and</strong> underdeveloped structure <strong>of</strong> argument;<br />

• Work that is <strong>of</strong> limited coherence <strong>and</strong> clarity.<br />

Work that <strong>of</strong>ten misrepresents or misunderst<strong>and</strong>s thinking in the discipline<br />

through:<br />

• Minimal attention paid to the quality, range <strong>and</strong> appropriateness <strong>of</strong><br />

sources used;<br />

• Poorly informed opinion led work with a minimal evidence base;<br />

• No real underlying structure <strong>of</strong> argument;<br />

• Work that is frequently confused <strong>and</strong> incoherent.<br />

Work that fundamentally misrepresents or misunderst<strong>and</strong>s thinking in the<br />

discipline through:<br />

• A lack <strong>of</strong> attention to the quality, range <strong>and</strong> appropriateness <strong>of</strong><br />

sources used;<br />

• Poorly informed opinion-led work rather than evidence based<br />

argument;<br />

• No real underlying structure <strong>of</strong> argument;<br />

Work that completely misrepresents or misunderst<strong>and</strong>s thinking in the<br />

discipline through:<br />

• Inadequacy <strong>of</strong> sources used;<br />

• Unsubstantiated assertion with no evidence base<br />

• Failure to structure the argument being presented;<br />

21


0-9 • Demonstrates mainly ignorance <strong>of</strong> the subject<br />

matter by presenting information <strong>of</strong> minimal<br />

relevance.<br />

• Little or no awareness <strong>of</strong> appropriate principles,<br />

theories, evidence <strong>and</strong> techniques.<br />

• Learning outcomes not met<br />

• No real attention to any norms <strong>of</strong><br />

presentation.<br />

Work that completely misrepresents or misunderst<strong>and</strong>s thinking in the<br />

discipline through:<br />

• Absence or misuse <strong>of</strong> sources;<br />

• Work that is confused <strong>and</strong> incoherent.<br />

22


Appendix F3: University Policy <strong>and</strong> Guidelines for the Anonymous<br />

Marking <strong>of</strong> Examination Scripts<br />

1.1 A policy <strong>of</strong> anonymous marking for all written <strong>examinations</strong> was introduced in 1996-<br />

97 (SEN 6/95: Minute 73 refers). Faculties may decide whether the principle should be<br />

extended to any <strong>other</strong> <strong>forms</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>assessment</strong>.<br />

1.2 Each c<strong>and</strong>idate will be expected to identify his or her script by means <strong>of</strong> the University<br />

Registration Number (URN); this is printed on the library card. It has been agreed that it<br />

is desirable to allocate individual seat numbers to c<strong>and</strong>idates but the Academic Registry<br />

cannot do this <strong>and</strong> produce place cards at present. Those Faculties which decide to<br />

produce their own place cards should include the c<strong>and</strong>idate's number in addition to<br />

the name. Owing to the possibility <strong>of</strong> a c<strong>and</strong>idate writing a wrong or illegible number<br />

on a script, answer books are used which enable the c<strong>and</strong>idate to write his or her<br />

name on the script <strong>and</strong> then seal down the corner to conceal it; if necessary this corner<br />

can be slit open to reveal the c<strong>and</strong>idate's name. Supplies <strong>of</strong> answer books with 16<br />

ruled pages (as at present) <strong>and</strong> small answer books with 8 ruled pages are available. A<br />

c<strong>and</strong>idate should write his or her number on any supplementary material, such as<br />

graph paper, <strong>and</strong> attach it to the answer book. For a multiple choice examination there<br />

should be a space for both the c<strong>and</strong>idate's number <strong>and</strong> name; the fact that the name<br />

cannot be concealed is <strong>of</strong> no importance since each answer is either right or wrong<br />

<strong>and</strong> marking is an automatic process.<br />

1.3 Attendance lists should be prepared by Faculties with the c<strong>and</strong>idates' names in<br />

alphabetical order but also showing each c<strong>and</strong>idate's number; such lists can be<br />

produced from the MIS database. Reference can be made to such a list if a c<strong>and</strong>idate<br />

does not know his or her number. For <strong>examinations</strong> at level HE2 <strong>and</strong> above, one copy<br />

<strong>of</strong> the list, marked to show the c<strong>and</strong>idates present, must be returned to the University<br />

Examinations Office <strong>and</strong> an<strong>other</strong> retained by the Faculty. Such a list must not be<br />

included in the bundle <strong>of</strong> scripts for marking.<br />

1.4 Scripts must remain identified only by number at least until they have been fully<br />

marked internally.<br />

1.5 The method <strong>of</strong> preparation <strong>of</strong> mark sheets will depend on whether this is done<br />

manually or by using a computer. If a computer is used then the c<strong>and</strong>idates should be<br />

arranged in numerical order to facilitate entering marks. The computer can, <strong>of</strong> course,<br />

be programmed to print mark sheets in any desired format for an examiners' meeting.<br />

For a meeting at which classes <strong>of</strong> degrees are to be determined, it may be <strong>of</strong><br />

advantage if the lists <strong>of</strong> c<strong>and</strong>idates are arranged in rank order according to the total<br />

mark. In all cases the agreed mark sheet submitted to the University Examinations<br />

Office after the examiners' meeting must list the c<strong>and</strong>idates in alphabetical order.<br />

1.6 Great care must be taken to avoid entering a mark against the wrong c<strong>and</strong>idate,<br />

whatever system is used to identify scripts.<br />

1.7 Each Faculty may decide whether c<strong>and</strong>idates should be identified by name throughout<br />

the examiners' meeting(s). When classes <strong>of</strong> degrees are being determined the best<br />

practice is to decide them initially, with the c<strong>and</strong>idates identified only by number. It is,<br />

however, necessary to identify c<strong>and</strong>idates by name to make any allowances for illness<br />

or <strong>other</strong> special circumstances.<br />

1.8 Each c<strong>and</strong>idate is entitled to be told his or her marks for each examination or <strong>other</strong><br />

form <strong>of</strong> <strong>assessment</strong> but a c<strong>and</strong>idate may not be told <strong>other</strong> individual c<strong>and</strong>idates'<br />

marks. A Faculty may find it convenient to provide this information by displaying a list<br />

<strong>of</strong> marks with the c<strong>and</strong>idates identified solely by number.<br />

23


Appendix F4: Statement <strong>of</strong> Policy on Special Examination <strong>and</strong><br />

Assessment Arrangements<br />

1 The University is committed to providing equality <strong>of</strong> opportunity in academic<br />

<strong>assessment</strong> for all students. This policy is intended to provide a clear statement <strong>of</strong> the<br />

University's specific commitments in relation to the reasonable adjustment to the<br />

examination arrangements for those students with recognised special needs or<br />

disabilities. It should be read in conjunction with the Student Disability Policy.<br />

2 The University will comply with the Special Educational Needs <strong>and</strong> Disability Act (2001)<br />

<strong>and</strong> Disability Discrimination Act: Part 4 (2001) with respect to making reasonable<br />

adjustments to <strong>assessment</strong> or examination arrangements.<br />

3 The University will provide reasonable adjustments to <strong>assessment</strong> <strong>and</strong> examination<br />

arrangements to provide equality <strong>of</strong> opportunity for students with special needs or<br />

disability to demonstrate their achievement <strong>of</strong> the learning outcomes.<br />

4 Reasonable adjustments to <strong>assessment</strong> arrangements will involve the provision <strong>of</strong><br />

appropriate resources, <strong>forms</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>assessment</strong> <strong>and</strong>, where necessary, additional time in<br />

time-constrained <strong>assessment</strong>s.<br />

5 The University will not normally adjust the criteria or learning outcomes for an<br />

<strong>assessment</strong>. However, in exceptional circumstances it may be necessary to make<br />

adjustments to a student’s programme <strong>of</strong> study, where it would <strong>other</strong>wise be<br />

impossible for the student to complete the learning outcomes. As is prescribed in the<br />

Code <strong>of</strong> Practice published by the Disability Rights Commission.<br />

6 Recommendations for the adjustment to arrangements for <strong>assessment</strong> <strong>and</strong> / or<br />

examination will be made by Additional Learning Support (ALS). Approval <strong>of</strong> the<br />

recommendation should be obtained prior to the implementation <strong>of</strong> any adjustment.<br />

The University Examinations Officer shall make special arrangements for the<br />

examination <strong>of</strong> a c<strong>and</strong>idate, which the Special Assessment Arrangements Committee<br />

approves – as is defined in the General Regulations. The terms <strong>of</strong> reference for the<br />

Committee are listed in The University Calendar. A flow chart <strong>of</strong> the process <strong>of</strong> an<br />

application follows <strong>section</strong> 7 below.<br />

7 Where it is not practically feasible to provide special examination arrangements, due to<br />

the lateness <strong>of</strong> recommendation or limitation <strong>of</strong> resources, the circumstances will be<br />

reported formally to the appropriate Board <strong>of</strong> Examiners by the Special Examinations<br />

Arrangements Committee. The Board will be informed <strong>of</strong> the recommendation for<br />

special examination arrangement for the student <strong>and</strong> be asked to take this into<br />

account when considering the progress <strong>of</strong> or award for the student.<br />

Dean <strong>of</strong> Students (4.1.05)<br />

24


Figure 10 – Procedure for Special Assessment Arrangements<br />

Students informed <strong>of</strong> how to apply for<br />

special examination arrangements<br />

<strong>and</strong> approach ALS, by specified date,<br />

for <strong>assessment</strong>.<br />

Student’s application is considered by<br />

ALS staff - evidence is gathered <strong>and</strong><br />

recommendation for special<br />

<strong>assessment</strong> arrangement (SAA) is<br />

made.<br />

ALS submit<br />

recommendation for<br />

SAA to SAAC<br />

SAAC approves<br />

recommendation <strong>and</strong><br />

forwards to Registry<br />

ALS inform<br />

student <strong>of</strong> SAA<br />

agreed<br />

Registry forward<br />

recommendations to<br />

Faculty Examination<br />

Officers<br />

Faculty Examination<br />

Officers implement<br />

Faculty/Departmentbased<br />

arrangements<br />

where approved at<br />

SAAC<br />

Exceptionally late applications<br />

may be considered by the<br />

Chair <strong>of</strong> SAAC in consultation<br />

with ALS, Registry <strong>and</strong><br />

Faculties<br />

25

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