Academic Standards and Quality

Overviewfreshers fair

What is the role of external examiners?

External examiners are part of University Quality Assurance (video) processes. External examiners are normally academics from other higher education institutions, but may be from industry, business or the profession depending what is appropriate for the course. External examiners are nominated by the department in accordance with the criteria for nomination and the Dean checks that they are qualified to review the awards and modules. External examiners come to give an impartial view of the course and independent advice, to ensure courses at the University meet the academic standards and quality expected across the sector.

 External examiners will review whether:

  • The programme meets its stated aims.
  • The assessments and types of assessment in modules are appropriate and of comparable standard to other institutions.
  • The marking has been applied fairly on assignments and the marking scheme/grading criteria have been properly and consistently applied.
  • The assessment process complies with the University of Essex Rules of Assessment and the curriculum remains current.

External examiners carry out their role with preparation from the department and are paid a fee for their time and input. For more information see roles and responsibilities of external examiners.

The Quality Assurance Agency (video) for Higher Education (QAA) review institutions approximately every 6 years. The QAA are putting together the UK Quality Code, and part of the code addresses external examining. Along with other important changes, the QAA now require all institutions to publish the names, position and institution the external examiner comes from to all students.  Names are now published on the module descriptor and programme specifications. The reports will also be discussed in detail at the  Student Staff Liaison Committee, so if students want more information on external examiner reports they should talk to their course representative or speak to the Head of Department.

External examiners are in place to provide an independent overview of processes, please do not contact them directly. If you do have any concerns please email academicstandards (non-essex users should add @essex.ac.uk)

 

 

 

 

 

Page last updated: 29 July 2013