International Study Programme: the development and administration of examinations
Description:
This two-week study programme in Cambridge is for anyone involved in the design and delivery of public examinations. International delegates review best practice and share their experiences of examination development and administration. Participants debate the principles of assessment design and how they can be carried forward into practice.
The course addresses key issues for organisations involved in public examinations, such as:
- What do our stakeholders need and require from us?
- How do we fulfil our responsibilities regarding accountability and the impact of assessment in society?
- Where can we make radical change to improve quality and effectiveness?
- Should we compromise - and if so, why and when?
- Where can the fast moving world of technology help us?
Visits and social activities
Whilst in Cambridge, delegates will have the opportunity to take part in a number of visits and social activities. These include a walking tour of Cambridge, taking in some of the famous University Colleges, a punting trip on the river Cam, a visit to a local school, and a trip to Cambridge Assessment's purpose-built warehouse, despatch and printing facility. Successful completion of the course is celebrated with dinner at one of the picturesque Colleges.
Participants
Typical participants are working for a public examinations provider at management level, in professional and/or operational areas. However, the course is also open to those who don't work directly in assessment provision, but would like to learn more about it. They may have an understanding of the administrative aspects of examinations provision, but are looking to develop their knowledge and skills, and to explore new approaches. They may have already been involved in designing new assessment tools or revising existing ones.
Certification
On completion of the course, participants receive a Certificate of Attendance from Cambridge Assessment.
Week One - Examination Development
Topics will include:
- The purposes of assessment
- Test development principles and procedures: the context and the test-taker
- Item writing, mark scheme development and test construction
- Pre-testing and item level data collection: uses of IRT and Rasch
- E-assessment: the implications of delivery and assessment mode
- Making assessment accessible to all
- Assessment for Learning
Week Two - Examination Administration
Topics will include:
- Current developments in examining and assessment: UK and worldwide
- Developing public policy and planning
- Capacity building and monitoring
- Standard setting and maintaining
- Managing the delivery of examinations: virtual and physical modes
- Objective marking and professional judgement: the practical implications
- Stakeholder relations: feedback and support
- Appeals and dealing with malpractice
- Public examinations: the role and responsibilities of the awarding body
Fees
The fee for the course is GBP£3,200 per person.
The fee includes tuition from two full time tutors and assessment specialists, all study materials, transport to and from the airport, 14 nights' full board accommodation at a hotel in Cambridge, lunch at Cambridge Assessment, Monday-Friday, and a social programme including dinner at a Cambridge college.
How to apply
To register for the course please complete and return the registration form above. For further information please contact the Cambridge Assessment Network at thenetwork@cambridgeassessment.org.uk.
