Remote assessment in higher education: A framework for quality and integrity

The rapid digitalization of education, accelerated by recent global events, has highlighted the urgent need for scalable, user-friendly platforms and robust assessment frameworks that uphold academic standards while addressing the needs of diverse learners. In this evolving context, blended learning models that combine online and in-person components are emerging as key to delivering both theoretical and practical competencies.

To support institutions and Quality Assurance (QA) Agencies in navigating these changes, a consortium of universities and external QA Agencies from Italy, Spain, and Portugal has developed a set of Guidelines for remote assessment, closely aligned with the European Standards and Guidelines (ESG). The Guidelines want to equip HEIs with practical tools for implementing remote assessments and offer QQAs a framework to evaluate the quality and integrity of such practices. So far, the rationale behind is to foster quality, integrity, and inclusivity in digital education enhancing institutions and QQAs digital assessment practices.

At the core of the Guidelines are twelve standards that provide a structured framework for developing, implementing, and evaluating remote assessment practices. They address key areas such as institutional policies, digital infrastructure, assessment design, academic integrity, and learner support.

Ultimately, the Guidelines are a timely response to the changing educational landscape, some of them triggered by recent emergency events, that highlighted the need for new approaches and answers to emerging challenges, offering a shared and robust quality framework while supporting innovation, accountability, and student success in the digital age.

This paper was presented at EQAF and reflects the views of the named authors only.

ISSN: 1375-3797

Remote assessment in higher education: A framework for quality and integrity

Marilena Maniaci, Emilia Primeri, Simone Via, Maria João Manatos, Carme Edo Ros, Noèlia Grifo

Download