QMU External Examiner induction: aide memoire for Programme Leaders
Each new External Examiner should be offered an on-site induction in advance of commencing the duties associated with the post. Exceptionally, the induction may be conducted using an alternative format, for example Skype supplemented by a later visit to the University. Typically, the Programme Leader is responsible for arranging the induction.
The key points set out in the table overleaf may be covered in the induction. Where points are not relevant, or have been covered previously - for example, through telephone contact in advance of the Examiner’s first visit – the Programme Leader should tailor the induction accordingly. Examiners with responsibility for collaborative provision should be separately inducted to the University’s arrangements for overseeing academic programmes delivered in partnership with other providers.
Programme Leaders are reminded that Examiners receive comprehensive written information on appointment in the form of the University’s External Examiners’ Handbook (2013). The on-site induction complements this resource and provides an opportunity to answer any preliminary questions that Examiners might have following their initial reading of the Handbook and programme-specific materials. The Handbook can be accessed on the University’s Quality website at: Resources for External Examiners
Programme Leaders are welcome to involve staff of the Division of Governance and Enhancement (GQE) in the induction process. This may be especially useful for appointees with no prior experience of the External Examiner role. Staff of the Centre for Academic Practice can also provide support, as appropriate and agreed on an individual basis.
For further details on Examiner induction or any aspect of External Examining at QMU, please contact Dawn Martin, Assistant Secretary, Governance and Quality Enhancement: Dawn Martin Email Address Feedback on the usefulness of this aide memoire would also be welcome, either from Programme Leaders or External Examiners. Again, this can be submitted to Dawn Martin.
| Topic |
Notes/suggested points to cover |
|---|---|
|
Information about QMU |
Brief history; QMU mission and vision, including flagships and the four Is; strategy and structure (Schools and Divisions) |
|
Information about the School and Division |
Structure, programmes and key staff |
|
Information about the Programme |
Reference points, structure, content, assessment, placement etc. Details of access to the Hub can also usefully be discussed (perhaps with a demonstration) |
|
The External Examiner’s role at QMU |
Moderation; sample size; procedure in event of disagreeing with internal Examiners; any entitlement to meet individual students (normally there is none) |
|
Exam Boards |
Conduct of Exam Boards; expected attendance; process for endorsing decisions/with-holding endorsement |
|
QMU assessment regulations and regulations governing extenuating circumstances |
Explain any programme-specific regulations |
|
Report and response |
Deadline for reports = 30 September each year to be submitted to External Examining Email Address Response within approx. eight weeks to allow for discussion with full team. |
|
How reports are shared with students |
As a minimum this is through the Programme Committee to class representatives |
|
Travel and accommodation |
Can be arranged by the Academic Administration |
|
Fees and expenses |
Submit to GQE; note three month timescale for expenses, need for receipts and sustainable travel policy |
|
UKBA eligibility |
Each new Examiner is asked to bring their passport to the University on the occasion of their first visit The Programme Leader should also bring the Examiner to GQE, where any member of staff can verify eligibility/copy the passport. |
|
Key contacts |
Programme Leader Academic Administration |
|
Campus tour |
Brief campus tour – may be more relevant for Examiners with responsibility for programmes that make use of specialist accommodation |
