E-assessment and the effect on A level exam revision

Back in 2004, the then chief executive of the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, Ken Boston, announced in a speech presented at London's Royal Festival Hall that within five years the power of technology would transform the way pupils took exams. However, five years on, pupils embarking on their AS exam revision were still preparing to put pen to exam paper in the summer.

Actually, pupils studying for GCSEs and A levels found their exam revision relatively unhindered by worries related to computer crashes or VDU failure. E-assessment just hadn't made it.

On-screen tests were available in some major subjects such as science, but in 2009 Andrew Boyle from Ofqual, the exams regulation board, noted that as of summer 2008, fewer than one in ten schools in England, Wales or Northern Ireland had access to e-assessment for their examinations.

Boyle said, "Clearly, there is less use of technology for GCSEs and A-levels than for, say, on-line shopping or social networking. This is something to do with the nature of examining. It is a high-stakes activity, which is closely scrutinised. I think there is a genuine aversion to risk in this area, within government, within providers of assessment, amongst students, parents and staff. Because of this, things will tend to move slowly."

AS and A level revision with Justin Craig

We appreciate that for many students AS exam revision is an extremely "high-stakes" activity, as performance at this level can affect so much in a young person's life. If attainment at AS level is not what a student had hoped it may prevent them going on to the A2 level exam and this could affect university applications the following year.

At Justin Craig we pride ourselves on the expertise of all our staff and tutors and know that whatever developments occur in the future of teaching and examination options we will offer A level exam revision courses that help pupils to perform to their full potential at the time of assessment.

We offer a range of exam revision options – including courses held at Easter, over the Christmas holidays, and in May. We offer residential and day centre classes with flexible choices regarding the number of subjects studied. Our small group environments offer exceptional value for money and a really intensive level of focus for AS and A level exam revision.

For more details of subjects and revision centre details browse through our web pages, or alternatively, call our enquiry line on 0845 06 06 555. Our advisors will be happy to answer any questions you have regarding how Justin Craig can help with AS exam revision.