Challenges Faced by Tutors In Setting of Examinations

Abstract

Regarding the testing /examination situation in English at Higher Education level most institutions hold test development workshops/seminars for their staff, have internal and external examination moderation, and the staff work as a team thereby making the staff conversant with the right techniques of setting examinations. This paper examines the challenges faced by tutors in setting of examinations. Data was collected by administering questionnaires to tutors to identify challenges faced in setting of examinations and forms of support required. The study was conducted in 2012 in an institution in Kenya. Findings of the study, remedies and recommendations are discussed herein.

The study concluded that during internal and external moderation of summative examinations some challenges are identified. As per the findings, some tutors require adequate support to acquire the necessary skills through workshops, seminars and mentoring by experienced colleagues. Providing proper orientation to tutors who require this is mandatory for setting of effective examinations. Equipping them with the needed skills improves the quality of examinations in an institution and gives tutors confidence.

Key words Challenges, tutors, setting examinations, remedies, quality, standard, testing, validity, moderation.