Acceptance and usage of e-assessment for UK awarding bodies – a research study

This research provides an exploration of the UK e-Assessment market, in relation to the UK Awarding Bodies, comparing findings with those of twelve months ago. It also elucidates on the key areas that have emerged since the first research was conducted. This provides an insight into the remaining drivers and barriers to the adoption of e-Assessment, but also the widespread acceptance and adoption in the UK. With 81% of all recognised Awarding Bodies being interviewed, this study is verging on an Awarding Body e-Assessment census based on sound research principles which will lead to continuing e-Assessment development. The level of e-Assessment industry knowledge and uptake of programs within UK Awarding Bodies is at a much more advanced position compared to the previous research findings. The pace of market change has clearly quickened. It is possible to state that these findings will allow Awarding Bodies to revisit their thoughts on e-Assessment, altering the pace of market maturity in the short to medium term. Questions related to topics such as psychometrics, use of multiple choice questions for higher levels of learning and e-Assessment location preference, have provided responses which give a sign-post for the key emergent market needs.