14 October 2025

In previous visitations and midterms, it was mentioned that it would be good to organise Calibration Sessions to ensure that examiners use the same frame of reference. The first Calibration Sessions was held on May 20^th, which resulted in fruitful discussions and new perspectives. With this message, the Board of Examiners would like to invite all Archaeology examiners to sign up for the second session of this series.

Thesis assessments

This session involves calibrating the assessments of theses. The Board of Examiners proposes to hold Calibration Sessions for final papers 3 times a year. The aim is to safeguard a shared frame of reference for the assessment of theses. Although quality is guaranteed by appointing a second, independent examiner in addition to the first examiner (who is also the supervisor), it is necessary to stay alert to how theses from different departments are assessed by our staff.

Principles

In organising the sessions, the committee follows these principles:

• Examiners pre-assess one thesis for themselves using the standard assessment forms. These are collected in advance. During the Calibration Session, similarities and differences are examined and explained. The motivation is especially important here:  what are the valid elements that make the thesis worth a certain grade.
• Everyone will receive an invitation to which examiners can register. Participation on a voluntary basis, but attending once per academic year is mandatory. Two more Calibration Sessions will be organised later this academic year for the examiners who cannot participate in this session.

Registration second Calibration Session

This session will be held on 18 November, from 10:30 to 12:00 hours. Participants can register via this form. Further information on the thesis, assessment, etc., will follow after registration.