December 2023
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This conference examined the future of the qualifications and assessment system in Scotland.
It took place as The Scottish Government considers its response to the Independent Review of Qualifications and Assessment, led by Professor Louise Hayward, who is a keynote speaker at this conference, which recommended:
- that students should not sit exams before fifth year
- the introduction of a Scottish Diploma of Achievement (SDA) as a Senior Phase graduation certificate
- a digital profile for all learners to record personal achievements and plan for future education
Speakers also discussed proposals to replace the SQA and approaches for inspection in education going forward, with a consultation launched by The Scottish Government in November which will inform forthcoming legislation.
It was an opportunity to discuss the Review’s implications, as well as priorities for building qualifications fit for the future; exploring technical routes, and pathways into higher education and employment.
Delegates looked at the proposed introduction, and likely impact on teachers and learners, of the SDA and its possible three major sections, alongside the drive towards digital skills, with proposed reforms aiming to equip learners with the qualifications needed to thrive in a future digital environment.
Further sessions looked at reforming and broadening assessment methods, including the utilisation of technology and the future role of AI and digital assessment.
Overall, areas for discussion included:
- system reform: priorities moving forward for developing an effective qualification system - key findings from the Independent Review - challenges and opportunities around a proposed SDA
- responding to proposals: supporting learners and teachers - meeting the needs of colleges, universities and employers - exploring development of personal pathways and programmes of learning
- best practice:
- lessons from the 2023 exam season - moving forward from the impact of COVID-19 on student attainment and assessment reliability
- next steps for improving and futureproofing the qualifications system
- methodology: assessing the future of formative, summative and high-stake assessment - potential responsibilities of teachers
- utilising technology: reforming and broadening assessment methods - remote and digital assessment and invigilation - increasing the use of assistive technology to improve accessibility
- AI: responding to the rise of artificial intelligence - assessing opportunities and risks of increased use of AI within assessment - preventing malpractice - potential to ease teacher workloads
- quality assurance: utilising data to improve school accountability - examining the future of assessment regulation
- skills and the economy: ensuring qualifications are flexible and able to respond to changes - the role of skills and qualifications in boosting the economy
- student progression: assessing pathways into higher education and employment - building partnerships with employers to aid progression - transforming careers guidance for learners
The conference was an opportunity for stakeholders to consider the issues alongside key policy officials who attended from the DBT; Department for the Economy, NI; Department of Education, NI; Department of Education, ROI; DfE; Education Scotland; Ofqual; The Scottish Government; and the Welsh Government.
