Computer-Based Assessments, what are they?
Louise Bailey, Researcher at NFER, explores the benefits and challenges of computer-based assessment.
Onscreen Assessment
Technology is advancing, learning is evolving, and so is assessment.
That’s why we’re harnessing the power of onscreen assessment to support teachers and students in more than 115 countries.
We believe in creating assessments that encourage progress, enable access and inclusion, and enrich learning. As we explore the opportunities that lie ahead, making the right choices is key.
Together with the education community, we’re focused on choosing where and how we best use technology to positively impact assessments and the lives of learners.
Onscreen assessment in action
Driven by evidence and our work with the education community, our onscreen assessments are already influencing the exam experience in the UK and around the globe
Onscreen Assessment for GCSE English
We recently announced our ambition to offer onscreen options for GCSE English exams.*
Building on the success of our onscreen GCSE and International GCSE exams to date, we’re excited to be opening up more ways for students to best show what they know and can do in GCSE English Language, GCSE English Literature and GCSE English Language 2.0.
* Subject to regulatory timelines and Ofqual approval
New: selected International GCSEs
Students have been taking onscreen exams for our Pearson Edexcel International GCSE qualifications since 2022, with more subjects offering onscreen options every year.
GCSE Computer Science
Our Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9–1) Computer Science includes an onscreen exam to assess real-world skills in an engaging way.
Mocks Service
Thousands of students have sat our onscreen Pearson Edexcel mock exams in schools and homes since 2021.
And the following Pearson Edexcel International GCSE and GCSE* exams are going onscreen very soon...
| Available for first onscreen assessment from summer 2025 | Available for first onscreen assessment from summer 2026 |
Available for first onscreen assessment from summer 2027 |
* Subject to regulatory timelines and Ofqual approval | |
International GCSE Geography (for a limited number of centres) International GCSE Pakistan Studies International GCSE Islamic Studies |
International GCSE Information and Communication Technology International GCSE English as a Second Language |
International GCSE Computer Science |
|
GCSE English Language GCSE English Language 2.0 GCSE English Literature
|
Also available:
Functional Skills in maths and English
Flexibility is key with our range of on-demand, onscreen and remote-invigilated Level 1/2 assessments.
BTECs and Apprenticeships
Onscreen tests are available for BTEC Firsts, Technicals and Specialist qualifications, plus End-Point Assessments for Apprenticeships.
Onscreen assessment in Egypt
Working with the Egyptian Ministry of Education, we deliver over 14 million onscreen exams to over 1.6 million students a year.
Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic)
Our fully automated, AI-based test is used worldwide to certify English Language proficiency.
Research and insights
Every student, subject and assessment is unique. So, we’re always collaborating, discussing and investigating how we can unlock the opportunities from onscreen exams.
Together, we’ll will shape more assessment options that are accessible, inclusive and equip students for the future.
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Diagnostic assessments – what are they?
Kate Henshall, Primary Maths Advisor at Trinity MAT, adds to our Role and Value of Assessments blog by reviewing diagnostic assessments.
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Formative and summative assessments – what’s the difference?
Clare Sealy, Head of Education Improvement within the Education Office at the State of Guernsey, looks at the two key umbrella terms used in assessment.
#InYourEd Podcast
In a recent podcast on exams going digital, Hayley White (Pearson) shares insights with Grainne Hallahan (TES) and Tom Richmond (EDSK) on how we’re making onscreen exams a reality, our experiences, and what’s next.
What are the barriers and opportunities with onscreen?
Our 'Onscreen Assessment Spotlight' report draws on expert views and surveys to identify the opportunities of technology in assessment and the barriers to change.
What does the future of assessment look like?
We asked students, teachers, parents, employers and parliamentarians for their thoughts on the future of assessments for 14–19-year-olds in England.
What teachers and students say...
In May 2022, more than 600 students sat their Pearson Edexcel International GCSE (9–1) English Language A exams onscreen. The results were clear:
- 100% of teachers in our pilot are interested in offering our onscreen exams again
- 90% of students from the pilot said they think their school should offer more onscreen assessment in the future.
What's more, the pilot and our onscreen journey has led to us becoming a BETT Award Finalist for Transformational Impact.
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