Guidance regarding the role of external examiner
The role of the external examiner is to:
- assure the academic standards set for, and achieved by, students
- assure the University that the assessment processes are sound and fairly operated
- provide advice to the programme team
- provide an annual written report after the Board of Examiners
Assuring standards
- meet with students and staff (as agreed between the School and the external examiner)
- review the form and content of draft examination papers and coursework assessments
- moderate the assessment process through reviewing assessed work and marks awarded by internal examiners
- make recommendations, if required, for adjustment of marks
- attend Boards of Examiners meetings
- report to the team and University on the above
Enhancing provision
- make suggestions on education enhancement opportunities and approaches
- commend areas of good pedagogic or innovative practice
- comment on proposed changes to the programme structure and curriculum
- report to the team and University on the above
What is NOT part of the external examiner role:
- External examiners must not be directly involved in marking and assessment of individual students. This includes larger pieces of work including undergraduate dissertations and masters dissertations. All Schools are required to have in place documented mechanisms to resolve cases of disagreement between internal markers, and these should be followed.
- If, exceptionally, the external examiner is asked to comment on an individual case where these mechanisms have not led to a resolution, the final decision in such cases must remain with the Board of Examiners collectively.
- External examiners cannot change marks or degree classifications for individual candidates. Rather their role is to confirm that marking criteria and marking standards are appropriate and are being applied appropriately and consistently in line with the University’s Policy and Procedures for Boards of Examiners for Taught Programmes.