UK Company DRS highlights the benefits of electronic marking at the Summer 2012 SAAEA Conference, Swaziland

DRS Data Services Director of Electronic Assessment, Graham Hudson, has been invited to share his expertise regarding the challenges of introducing new technologies globally, at the 6th annual Southern Africa Association for Educational Assessment (SAAEA) Conference in Matsapha, Swaziland 11-13 June 2012.

The Southern Africa region is currently undergoing educational reforms that may impact on assessment techniques and quality of assessment services. The quest for free education by governments and its introduction by some, has necessitated curriculum and assessment reforms that are aligned with inclusive education. Providing free education comes with certain economic pressures which have seen some education systems moving from normal progression to automatic progression to cut the cost of retaining learners in the education system. Coupled with these pressures is the increasing cost of assessment which has prompted some stakeholders in education to question the relevance or value of public examinations.

The 2012 SAAEA conference will attempt to address these issues in the face of economic challenges and Graham Hudson will highlight the growing number of examining and assessment bodies in Africa experiencing tangible benefits of electronic marking. DRS specialises in examination and assessment processing and electronic marking. The company’s e-Marker® technology is successfully utilised by the UK's leading examination awarding bodies and provides greater accuracy, efficiency and improved productivity. For some examining and assessment bodies in Africa it is already proving to be a valuable tool to achieve greater consistency and automated quality control, but most importantly costs are significantly reduced at a time when they are experiencing financial pressures.

During his presentation, Graham Hudson will explain the key benefits of electronic marking, but he will also emphasis the necessity for all stakeholders to recognise and appreciate the extent of the organisational and process change required and consequently the appropriate plans and procedures that must be put in place, to deliver successful, cost effective implementation.

He comments; “DRS started piloting electronic marking over 10 years ago and was the first organisation to provide a system to a UK awarding body. We are now working globally and specifically with awarding, assessment and professional bodies across Africa, giving them the opportunity to experience specific benefits with real value, long term. However the greatest challenges for successful implementation lie in local conditions and infrastructure, with the organisational and personal changes that have to be managed. I am delighted to have the opportunity to address the SAAEA Conference to share best practice and offer proven solutions.”

Ends

Additional information

DRS has over 40 years experience in delivering data capture projects around the world.  Specialising in examination and assessment processing and electronic marking, it also provides solutions for elections and censuses.  Systems are implemented using the Company’s extensive expertise in document design, printing, award winning scanning and image capture technologies, software, logistics, project management and consultancy. 

Visit www.drs.co.uk for more details.

For more information please contact:

Jane Da Costa or Sue McBreen

Friday’s Media Group, 18 Soho Square, London, W1D 3QL

Telephone: 0845 500 1140

janed@fridays-group.co.uk or suem@fridays-group.co.uk

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