Question Paper Quality Assurer
A Question Paper Quality Assurer (QPQA) is responsible for reviewing the question paper, and supporting marking instructions, under the direction of the Principal Assessor. This work must be undertaken within the conditions, timescales and arrangements set by SQA.
The primary role is to check the consistent application of national standards and subject specific integrity of decision-making in relation to questions; review and prepare feedback on both the question paper and marking instructions whilst ensuring subject specific integrity and the consistent application of national standards. This role will involve communicating and discussing this feedback during the Question Paper Quality Assurance (QPQA) meeting.
These activities will be under the direction of the Principal Assessor and staff from SQA's Qualifications Development and Operations directorates as appropriate. There may be a requirement to undertake duties during weekends and holiday periods in your own time.
Outline of duties
- Review question(s) and marking instructions providing comment on their suitability in terms of validity, reliability, accuracy, degree of difficulty, content, mark allocation, layout, spelling and grammar to ensure they meet the requirements of the item specification.
- Ensure that new question(s) are free of bias and stereotyping on the basis of factors such as race, religion, disability, sex, social background, sexual orientation and age.
- Review and prepare feedback on the question paper and marking instructions in advance of the QPQA Meeting. Feedback will be based on the following:
- balance and cohesiveness of the question paper
- using professional judgement, confirmation that the question paper can be completed within the allocated time
- that the text and layout of the question paper, marking instructions and any other related materials meet SQA requirements
- Attend the QPQA meeting and communicate feedback on the question paper and marking instructions
- Support SQA with continuous improvement developments.
Selection criteria
Successful candidates must:
- currently be delivering a course in the subject area at one or more levels (or a closely-related course) and be able to demonstrate excellence in marking to the national standard
- have an in-depth understanding of national standards across the course/level in the subject area
- be able to demonstrate excellent organisational skills, administrative skills and attention to detail
- be able to demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills and be able to engage positively with all members of the team
- be able to communicate professionally, confidently and effectively; work professionally and co-operatively with other appointees and SQA staff
- have a home computer or laptop with broadband internet connection and a private e-mail address
Key Performance Measures for Question Paper Quality Assurer
Each year, on completion of the duties outlined in the QPQA contract specification, the QPQA will be measured against the following Key Performance Measures (KPMs) and informed of the outcome in relation to their performance by exception. Key Performance Measures are as follows:
- Quality Assure the question paper, meeting timelines and in accordance with SQA policy and instruction.
- Provide constructive feedback and suggestions for amendments to the question paper and marking instructions where appropriate.
- Attend the QPQA meeting.
- Positive engagement with members of the team and with members of SQA staff.