Ofqual publishes paper on public perceptions of reliability in examination results
Friday, 27 August 2010 09:20
Ofqual has today published the latest paper from its on-going research programme into the reliability of results from national tests and qualifications used in England.
Public Perceptions of Unreliability in Examination Results in England: A New Perspective, has been published today following its presentation at the 36th International Association for Educational Assessment (IAEA) Annual Conference in Bangkok, Thailand on 23 August. The paper was presented by Ofqual's Director of Standards, Dennis Opposs.
The paper is part of Ofqual's work to research public perceptions of unreliability in examination results. An online questionnaire was used to measure different aspects of respondents' knowledge of and attitudes on this issue among three key stakeholder groups: A level teachers, A level students aged 16-18, and employers.
Among the key findings detailed in the paper are:
- There is substantial variability in the understanding of reliability concepts and attitudes to unreliability among the respondents
- The main factors affecting a student's performance on the day of their exam are how much they know about the subject and how well they have prepared
- Changes to the marking system and method of assessment were seen as major factors that could improve the reliability of results
- The level of tolerance of potential inaccuracy was, to some degree, correlated to the level of knowledge about the examinations system
The reliability programme is due to finish in December 2010.
Notes to editors
- The report can be downloaded from www.ofqual.gov.uk/files/2010-08-public-perceptions-of-unreliability-in-exam-results.pdf
- For more information please contact the Ofqual press office on 0300 303 3342 or 07798 924552 out of hours
- More informaton on Ofqual's reliability programme is available on our website
