* Mark Schemes: Examiners use detailed mark schemes created before the exams. These schemes break down each question, outlining the expected answers, acceptable variations, and the marks awarded for different levels of understanding and accuracy. They aren't just simple "right or wrong" answers; they consider different approaches and partial understanding.
* Teamwork and Training: Markers are experienced teachers and subject specialists, carefully selected and extensively trained. This training ensures consistency in applying the mark scheme across all papers. They go through rigorous training sessions covering the mark scheme's nuances and how to handle unusual answers.
* Moderation: To maintain consistency, a system of moderation is employed at multiple levels. This includes:
* Internal Moderation: Team leaders within marking centres check the work of individual markers to ensure consistency in application of the mark scheme.
* External Moderation: CAIE's own moderators review samples of marked scripts from different marking centres to ensure consistent standards across the board. This involves checking for accuracy and consistency in marking and identifying any potential issues.
* Standardisation Meetings: Before marking begins, examiners participate in standardisation meetings where they discuss the mark scheme and practice marking sample papers. This helps ensure a common understanding and application of the marking criteria.
* Principal Examiner: A Principal Examiner oversees the entire marking process, ensuring the quality of the marking and the adherence to the mark scheme. They are responsible for the final checks and approval of the results.
In short, Cambridge's correction process is designed to minimize subjectivity and maximize accuracy through detailed mark schemes, extensive examiner training, multiple levels of moderation, and a rigorous quality control system. It's a sophisticated process aimed at ensuring fairness and reliable results for all candidates.