British Qualifications 2020, 50th Edition

INTRODUCTION

Definition of common terms

A number of terms are commonly used as synonyms for qualifications, for example 'examinations'

and 'courses'. This can hide important differences of meaning and lead to confusion and mis

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understanding. In some contexts, it may be important to make these differences explicit to guard

against exaggerating or diminishing the level of achievement, which is an essential core of the

concept of qualification. It is especially important to clarify the difference in meaning between

'examination', 'course' and 'qualification'.

Examination

An examination is a formal test or assessment. It can focus on one or more of the following:

knowledge, understanding, skill or competence. An examination may be set as a written test, ...