Examination philosophy — or: They shall not pass

Abstract

It is much easier to get a degree than a professional qualification in business studies. Many factors can contribute to the difference in success rates achieved on these two types of course. For example, on a degree programme it is possible for students to be taught by the person who has set the syllabus, devised the reading list, and set the examination paper. In contrast students preparing for professional examinations may be receiving their tuition from tutors who have had no part in these processes, or any contact with the people responsible for them. The advice provided to tutors by professional bodies varies but, whatever its level, one cannot escape the fact that students are largely dependent on their tutors' own interpretation of the unique expectations of each professional body. This disparity between an internal and external programme of study must be expected to contribute to the considerable difference in pass rates.

Citation

Jones, L., Knight, M. and Fiddes, D. (1986), "Examination philosophy — or: They shall not pass", Education + Training, Vol. 28 No. 5, pp. 130-135. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb017267