Summer 1999 NEWSLETTER ODL QC
Open and Distance Learning Quality Council, Westminster Central Hall, Storey's Gate, London SW1H 9NH
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How Britain Makes Life Difficult for Exam Candidates (Page 1 of 3)
Page 2

THIS ISSUE
Editorial
Airline Recruitment & Training
NABSE

BACK ISSUES
Spring 1999
Winter 1998/9

Annabel in Workington and Mohammed in Abu Dhabi are both studying by distance learning. As well as the advantages and disadvantages of studying flexibly they both face another common problem: Where do they take their exams? While there are people who study 'just for fun or to acquire a skill ', the majority are seeking some sort of accreditation or certification. As 'educators' I see it as part of our job to make that recognition possible. So the first step is for us to design or choose programmes that lead to some recognised qualification.

In the wider context of Lifelong Learning, 'the system' also has to make that possible. Effectively that means that Anyone, Anywhere can be assessed by examination or otherwise at almost Anytime. There are practical issues which may mean that 'Anytime' has to be interpreted as 'as often as possible'. But that is the aim.

Looking at the most popular of the public examinations, GCSE and 'A' levels, there are centres all over the UK - schools, colleges and a few other organisations. They cater for their own in-house students. Some willingly, others reluctantly, will take external or private candidates; many will accept neither. One or two Boards have 'open centres' in London and perhaps one other place where anyone can enter.

(Continued ...)
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WHAT WE CAN DO?

If only some exam boards are sympathetic to distance learners we can choose their syllabuses when we write the material.

When there is no choice, we need to write to DfEE, the British Council and others with influence to persuade those exam boards unfriendly to the UK's educational export effort to change their minds.