Case Study: Transforming International GCSE Assessments

International GCSE - Pearson Edexcel

Overview

Pearson Edexcel is transforming the delivery of high-stakes exams assessments for its International GCSE qualifications, globally. Building on the success of the 2022 onscreen assessment pilot for International GCSE English students in the Middle East and Europe, Pearson aimed to transition to dual-mode (paper and onscreen) assessments across various subjects, offering onscreen high-stakes assessments in Summer 2023.

The primary objective was to provide flexibility to Pearson Edexcel customers globally. This initiative utilised our Modulus ecosystem to ensure the timely and secure creation, delivery and marking of all onscreen International GCSE English Language and Literature high-stakes assessments.

Customer and Context

  • Age and stage: Secondary students; 14-16 years old
  • Qualification/assessment: International GCSEs
  • Purpose: Transition to onscreen assessments, offering choice to Pearson customers globally

Timeline and Scope 

  • Started in 2022 with an initial pilot, with 6 schools and 600 students
  • 2023 cohort increased to 12 schools and circa 1800 students, with 2024 volumes expected to be 35 schools and 6000 students
  • Expected delivery of International GCSE Business, Economics, History, and International A Level English Literature and English Language in 2024

Inputs and Outputs

  • Onscreen assessment authoring and delivery for Pearson's International qualifications portfolio
  • Assessments delivered on school and/or student-owned devices, with schools offered onscreen mock exams in the year of final assessment, to support familiarisation and confidence with the platform and presentation of content

Technology 

  • Utilised Pearson's Modulus ecosystem for end-to-end digitisation
  • Covered item and test authoring, onscreen mock test delivery, live remote invigilation, onscreen marking, results delivery and data reporting

Challenges/Complexities

  • Ensuring teachers' confidence in the technology's security and ease of onscreen assessment delivery
  • Integrating Modulus technology with existing backend platforms/systems for data analysis, awarding, certification, results delivery, and reporting
  • Meeting tight delivery timescales for online proctoring
  • Providing simultaneous support globally

Other Highlights/Differentiation

  • Tailored Support Structure: Developed a three-line support structure for tailored communication with school exams officers, teachers, and IT/admin staff.
  • Familiarisation and Support: Delivered content and services including topic-tests, teacher webinars, walkthrough videos, and user guides to ensure confidence and proficiency
  • Flexible Solutions: Accommodated various school/candidate-owned devices, systems, and models of delivery, including secure browser-based and Kiosk Mode solutions
  • Secure Global Delivery: Ensured secure, simultaneous delivery and support across global regions, including timezone-specific assessments

Outcome

  • The project successfully transitioned multiple subjects to onscreen assessments, providing flexibility and choice to Pearson customers globally
  • Increasing participation from 600 students (2022) to an expected 6000 students (2024).
  • The Modulus ecosystem facilitated a seamless transition, addressing security concerns, and ensuring efficient delivery and support across diverse regions