Recent SQA research

Learner and Educator Views on Proposed Changes to the Higher Drama Question Paper

This research captures the views of learners and educators on the proposed changes to the Higher Drama question paper, for session 2025-26 onwards.

Working towards a Definition of Work-based Learning – an Evidence Paper

This evidence paper was developed to inform our engagement with internal and external stakeholders to shape our model of work-based learning, as part of our work-based learning strategy.

The paper provides context to our work by summarising academic literature on work-based learning and how it is defined in different countries. It also analyses the purpose and benefits of work-based learning and how this is changing in today's digital world.

The paper sets out our approach to engaging with stakeholders and how this was informed by the literature. It then reports on the results of our engagement and how this fed back into our overall strategy and the development of our model of work-based learning.

Evaluation of the 2024 approach to assessment of National Courses

The research findings, together with our engagement with the education community, will inform our work on qualification reform, as part of the Scottish Government’s education reform programme.

Generative Artificial Intelligence and Learners with Additional Support Needs: Literature Review

The literature review gives an overview of recently published primary research conducted into how artificial intelligence tools have been used to support learners with additional support needs.

Evaluation of the 2024 Access to Marked Exam Paper trial

The evaluation of the 2024 Access to Marked Exam Paper trial was designed to enable further development of the service and evidence-based policy development.

Review into the removal of question paper from practical subjects

As a first step towards reviewing assessment in National Courses, in early 2024 we conducted research with teachers and lecturers to explore whether we should remove question papers (exams) from some practical subjects.

Generative AI Consultation Results - survey and focus groups 

The publication of the report findings informed our current position on candidates’ use of GenAI in assessments

Assessment Arrangements in External Assessments

Understanding the experiences of centres, local authorities, parent/carers and learners - assessment arrangements provide disabled learners and/or those with additional support needs with access to appropriate support to complete SQA’s external assessments,

National Standards Research Report

The report outlines findings on how practitioners, senior staff, and qualifications managers engage with and understand the National Standards in education.

Evaluation of the 2023 Approach to Assessment of Graded National Courses

Learners and practitioners across Scotland took part in our evaluation of how National 5, Higher and Advanced Highers were awarded in 2023.

Approach to Assessment of Graded National Courses 2022

Thousands of learners and educators across Scotland took part in our evaluation of how National 5, Higher and Advanced Highers were awarded in 2022.

Evaluation of the 2021 Alternative Certification Model

The 2021 Alternative Certification Model (ACM) was adopted to support learning, teaching and assessment following the cancellation of exams on public health grounds. Alongside academic partners we carried out research to find out how it worked in practice.

Education reform in Scotland - 2021

In 2021, we conducted two pieces of research to contribute towards the national discussion and evidence base around education reform in Scotland.

Appeals 2021

Employers and qualifications 2021

Research archive