ASSESSING THE IMPLEMENTATION AND IMPACT OF NCCEBENCHMARKS ON ASSESSMENT PRACTICES IN COLLEGES OFEDUCATION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This study investigates the implementation and impact of the National Commission for Colleges of Education
(NCCE) Benchmarks on assessment practices in Nigerian Colleges of Education. A descriptive survey design was
employed with data collected from lecturers and academic administrators across federal, state, and private
institutions. Of 450 questionnaires administered, 412 were returned (91.6% response rate). Descriptive statistics
indicated a moderate level of benchmark implementation (Grand Mean = 2.87/4.00), with higher compliance in
continuous assessment weighting (M = 3.12) and lower compliance in moderation (M = 2.61) and feedback
mechanisms (M = 2.54). Inferential analyses showed significant differences across institution types (F(2, 409) =
5.84, p < .05). A strong positive relationship was found between benchmark implementation and assessment
quality (r = .68, p < .05). Regression results revealed that benchmark implementation significantly predicted
assessment quality (β = .64, t = 12.37, p < .05), explaining 46% of the variance (R² = .46). The findings indicate
that while NCCE Benchmarks influence assessment practices, uneven implementation particularly in moderation
and feedback limits their effectiveness. Strengthening assessment literacy, monitoring, and institutional support
is recommended.