Has any research been carried out into whether people with an AS mindset prefer IGCSEs over GCSEs and are more likely to achieve higher grades with IGCSEs? The IGCSE is all examination with no coursework and the exam papers are written in a more literal style, often because English is not the first language of the candidate, rather than the more populist style of GCSE exams which is probably geared towards a more NT mindset. They were originally intended for foreign countries which still wanted all examination qualifications but some independent schools in Britain also offer them.
The NAS defends GCSEs as it supports mainstream schooling and the NC. There is also scraps of information around that GCSE exams are better for kids with disabilities or from disadvantaged backgrounds than the O Levels they replaced which were similar to IGCSEs but is AS an exception to the rule?
19 Jan 2013, 7:44 am
