Exam limitations

A strong warning about the limitations of examination results has been delivered in a new report commissioned by the Association of Teachers and Lecturers.

The study casts doubt on whether examination results should be used as the sole basis on which to judge the performance of pupils, teachers and schools.

It also calls for a more mature attitude towards assessment processes and results.

Stakeholder Response: Association of Teachers and Lecturers

ATL deputy general secretary, Gwen Evans, said: "This publication challenges the myths behind examination results and forcibly reminds readers that there is nothing set in stone about the grades a student gets.

"What we need is an assessment system that does full justice to the achievement of the learner.  The present system is as reliable as it can be, but it is not good enough. Selection processes should be based on rounded pictures of students rather than the grades shortcut.

"As we near the annual exam results frenzy, parents, learners and teachers alike need to be aware of the element of chance that is inherent in even the best -run assessment system."

Stakeholder Response: Institute of Education