1. How External Examining Works in Practice John Malcolm BA (Oxon) MSc (Econ)

2. Introduction The role of the External Examiner Initial Reviews: Syllabi; Lecture Lists; Reading Lists Coursework Assignments Examination Papers Subject Panels & Award Boards

3. Coursework Assignments Approving assignments: factors to consider: Learning Objectives – are they clear & relevant? Is the assignment, understandable & open-ended? Mark Scheme/Indicative Answers. Appropriate, reasonable and relevant? Don’t hesitate to suggest improvements to the question (including use of English)

4. Monitoring Assignment Marking Factors to consider: Marked according to the Marking Scheme? Have appropriate standards been applied? Has appropriate feedback been given? Make sure first class marks have been justified It is not the External’s job to re-mark the assignment

5. Examination Papers Factors to consider when approving: Does the paper as a whole cover the syllabus? Is there sufficient choice of questions? Have the questions been set before? Beware lazy examiners! Check that exam questions are not the same as coursework questions Ensure that the paper does not include any questions not within the syllabus

6. Monitoring Exam Marking Sample scripts from each grade; look for consistency within and among grades Factors to consider: Did the candidate address the Q? If not, no more than a pass mark? Candidates should pass if they show an understanding of key elements Spelling does not matter in exams

7. Monitoring Exam Marking Encourage markers to be decisive: don’t give borderline marks (38, 39 etc) Ensure that the First Marker has not missed any page Ensure a Second Marker has agreed the mark or documented non agreement It is not the External’s job to re-mark the paper but to see it has been marked fairly

8. Monitoring Exam Marking If you have concerns about standards or particular marks awarded, raise them with the Course Director before the formal Subject Panel meets

9. Subject Panels & Award Boards Ensure that the proper procedures have been followed Confirm papers all double marked and agreed marks or disputes recorded Examiner’s Report Complete and submit, including any remaining concerns Help the institution to improve/maintain its standards