A-level Philosophy digital exams pilot: Student perspectives

Abstract

This report presents student perspectives from a digital exams pilot in A‑level Philosophy conducted between March and July 2025. The pilot explored the feasibility of delivering an essay‑based, high‑stakes assessment in a digital format and forms part of AQA’s wider programme of research into digital exams. Drawing on survey responses and focus groups with students across 12 centres, the report examines students’ experiences of taking the digital test, including perceived benefits, challenges and readiness for digital assessment. Students were generally positive about the digital exam platform, highlighting ease of editing and improved legibility of responses. However, differences in typing fluency, device familiarity, exam technique and the digital exam environment meant that not all students were equally able to access these benefits. The findings highlight key considerations for fairness, accessibility and student preparation that are relevant to digital exams more broadly, with particular implications for assessments involving extended written responses.

Keywords

• Accessibility
• Digital exams
• Fairness
• On-screen tests
• Student voice