It received 'Best Summative Assessment Award' at the International e-Assessment Awards 2020.

Winners were announced at an online ceremony and finalists were selected from a range of education sectors, with submissions including a number of exciting and creative projects.

Top success

The panel of judges praised the Digital Exams Service for demonstrating a high level of success with its ability to deliver programmes such as diversifying online exams.

The independent judges also commented that the service’s work on supporting accessibility was particularly noteworthy and should be recognised within the sector.

Professor Suzanne Cholerton, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Education, Newcastle University, said: “I am extremely pleased that the hard work and dedication of colleagues has been recognised with this international award which represents a commitment to excellence, innovation and collaboration across the University.   

“The Digital Exams Service has been successful in diversifying online exams with the introduction of digital written exams and a ‘bring your own device’ approach. This has enabled more authentic assessment and has enhanced the accessibility of exams for our students.”

The Digital Exams Service is founded on collaboration between academic and professional services colleagues in academic units across the institution, together with the Learning and Teaching Development Service, NUIT, and Exams and Awards Office.

e-Assessment awards

The e-Assessment Awards programme encompasses all sectors of education: from schools, further and higher education, to workplace training and professional exams.

The Awards programme was launched in October 2016 to highlight and celebrate the outstanding and positive contributions that technology makes to all forms of assessment, and has gone on to showcase the best practice, research and innovation in the sector.