This project investigated the use of external examiners by institutions accredited by the Open University Validation Services (OUVS) in England. The investigation involved visiting 18 accredited institutions and interviewing 10 external examiners. The study found widespread approval of the contribution made by external examiners. Reasons given for the support included: emphasis on justice and standards, comparability, validity, consistency, guarantee of quality to students, externality, advice, reassurance, "protection against ourselves," staff development, and the examiner's role as "critical friend." Concerns included institutional expectations, the workload of external examiners, recruitment of external examiners, remuneration, standards, and reports. Other issues discussed in the use of external examiners include documentation of their duties, training, the examiners' role and period of tenure, examiners' meeting with students, and fees. Issues involved with credit-rated institutions are also noted. Eighteen recommendations are offered. An appendix contains a list of visits made. Other Quality Support Center publications are listed. (JDD)