First emailed to UofG colleagues on 24 January 2022

Dear Colleagues,

We are writing to provide an update on the planning and arrangements for the Spring and Summer exam diets for 2022. This message outlines the approach to hosting some exams on campus for those areas seeking to reintroduce them where possible. We are aware that many exams will continue to be online in the short and longer term and wish to encourage that.

A dedicated Exam Sustainability project was set up in Semester 1 to propose an approach to exam planning that takes into account academic integrity, safety and wellbeing, and logistical considerations, when considering re-introducing some on campus exams. Working with colleagues and students from around the University, the Exam Sustainability project team has been developing recommendations on how the University will facilitate a mixed diet of online and on campus exams in the Spring and Summer 2022 diets.

The key recommendation from the project group, approved by SMG on 18 January 2022, is that the Spring and Summer 2022 exam diets should take place predominantly online, via Moodle, where it is possible to do so. Practical examinations will continue to be held on-campus as per the Winter 2022 exam diet. Exceptions should apply where:

  • An external statutory body sets the exam style and format, and mandates that these are held on campus under controlled conditions.
  • For exams at Levels 3, 4 and 5, open book conditions undermine the authenticity of an assessment that is associated with specific learning outcomes (and integrity cannot be adequately addressed through any other measures) and where it is known that all students concerned are studying on campus and will continue to be in Glasgow throughout the examination period.

We recognise that the practical effect of these recommendations is a considerable reduction in the number of exams that would normally take place on campus.

We are also aware that the impacts of this decision will vary depending on your School and subject area. The decision was based on several complex and often changing factors such as:

Scottish Government COVID-19 safety guidance, and the effect on finding suitable exam venues

  • Student location during the academic year
  • Teaching method, whether remote or on-campus
  • Exam preparation timelines, and how to ensure these proceed to schedule
  • The technological limitations that apply across the University’s estate

These measures are only planned to be in place for the Spring and Summer 2022 exam diets and will be reviewed in line with Scottish Government guidance on COVID-19. Work is continuing to support the balance of on campus and online exams in the December exam diet which is more challenging given the shorter time period available. In parallel, longer-term plans for assessment remain the subject of wider consultation.

The upcoming priority in preparing for the Spring 2022 exam session is Registry’s exam data check. This will be issued shortly to relevant staff, and we ask that you complete this accurately and by the deadline set. It is really important to avoid the need for subsequent changes because each change entails a reworking of the full timetable. Any Subjects/Schools wishing to make a case for on campus exams should discuss this with their Dean of Learning and Teaching.

Thank you for your understanding, and for all you are doing to ensure our students continue to receive a positive learning experience during the pandemic. Particular thanks also go to everyone who took the time to contribute to the planning work outlined here. It has been complicated and challenging, and we very much appreciate the commitment made to balancing the need for safety, fairness and academic integrity.

With best wishes,

Moira & Jill

Professor Moira Fischbacher-Smith, Vice-Principal (Learning & Teaching)

Professor Jill Morrison, Clerk of Senate & Vice-Principal

First published: 31 January 2022

<< 19 January 2022