Open College Network (OCN) External Moderation
As an OCN (Open College Network) assessment centre, we are also inspected annually by the OCN external moderator. This is an expert appointed by OCN to check on aspects of our training, assessment and quality systems. These comments can be accessed here.
The style of the reports generated is quite different from those of City and Guilds, and without an equivalent summary, hence we have had to take comments as they occur. Other requirements stated on the forms are just answered with a simple "Yes", and these have not been reproduced below as we expect them to be of little use to the reader.
The reader should be aware that these are independent reports / comments by expert moderators, and similar in principle to the reports produced by organisations such as Ofsted to rate the provision provided by schools.
External Moderators Comments, 2007:
" A tightly structured technical programme where assessments were criterion referenced. Objective, formal assessments & observation reports gave a secure base for outcome judgements. Well established formal programme of assessments supported the achievement of consistency and reliability.
The course materials were of a high standard. The administration of course documentation, and their distribution to tutors & learners, was efficient and effective.
The tutors appear to be well qualified for the delivery of the range of programmes.
Professional development needs were subjected to regular review and discussion.
Retention and achievement rates were very good (90 to 100%).
The Evaluation Sheets [learner course report forms] show a high level of learner satisfaction.
* Course evaluations showed a high level of satisfaction with the teaching, resourcing and content of the units."
External Moderators Comments, 2006:
"Excellent learning resource manual, and use of specialist communications equipment.
For overseas students verbal instructions can be given to ensure all written instructions are understood. perticularly in exams. For example groups from Malta and Algeria have been taught with very positive feedback.
Very helpful and professional staff at Lucid Optical Services. Posses Expert knowledge of subject matter covered, and have a wide range of resources available to them."
External Moderators Comments, 2005:
"Very thorough programme delivery with highly professional staff.
Health and safety issues are seen as critical in this particular field and are fully enforced.
All resources for the delivery of this programme have been available at all times.
All tutors are fully aware of the assessment requirements of this unit, and have complied with the requirements totally. They have scheduled assessments in an orderly and constructive manner and have given informative feedback to the students.
The tutors on this programme are very good at getting the maximum from the students. In particular the way the assessments are scheduledensures the group progresses at a rate that does not disadvantage an individual whilst at the same time ensuring that all learning outcomes are met. Also inmformative feedback is given to the students after they complete any written assessments. This is an example of how to get the best from students who may not have taken any written examinations for many years, if at all."