Short answer questions (or SAQs) can be used in examinations or as part of assessment tasks.  They are generally open-ended questions that require students to construct a response. Short answer questions require a concise and focused response that may be factual, interpretive or a combination of the two.

Short answer questions can be delivered in the following ways during the COVID-19 situation as an alternative to a paper-based final examination:

1. Time limited, non-invigilated online exam—the task is undertaken online under ‘exam-like’ time constraints (typically 1-3 hours) but is open book, allowing students to refer to any material they can access. DSA can assist with the scheduling of this task.
2. Invigilated online exam—the task is undertaken online under ‘exam-like’ time constraints (typically 1-3 hours) and invigilated remotely.  This category should only be pursued if, in consultation with your Head of School, the above two categories are not viable. DSA will assist with the scheduling of this task.