Digital Exams at X: Barriers, Challenges, and the Way Forward

Challenges with digital exams:

  • Infrastructure

    • Wi-Fi
      • Signal variance due to location and load
      • Weather-related issues Wi-Fi issues
      • Personal devices
      • What else can we think of?
    • Room configuration (not enough electrical outlets)
  • Personal devices - not all students have the same computer.
  • Personnel limitations – emergencies with digital exams may not be attended to in a timely manner especially after hours or on weekends.
  • Lack of computer labs
  • Proctoring Software
  • Respondus Lockdown Browser
    • Does not work with certain devices
    • Requires download and set up (mock up exams)
    • Not recommended for Tramble Students as it interferes with Read and Write
  • Other proctoring software

The way forward:

  • Know the risks - room, Wi-Fi, student tech capacity, software issues, personnel.
  • Consider paper exams
  • OMR/Scantron
  • Take-home or alternative assessment - what is something that you do as an alternative assessment?

Ask yourself these questions: 

I would like to do a Moodle exam. 

  1. If Yes, proceed to step 2. If No, proceed to a paper-based exam. 
  2. My digital exam will be in a classroom. If Yes, proceed to step 3. If No, it will be a take home, proceed to step 4. 
  3. Would you like to use Respondus Lockdown Browser? If Yes, proceed to step 5. If No, proceed to step 6. 
  4. If your exam is a take home, please note: 
    • DO NOT use Respondus as students can still use other devices, sit next to friends, etc.
    • DO have a robust Question Bank to optimize randomization.
    • DO set a time limit to the test.
    • DO consider setting exam navigation to Sequential. NOTE: This may be difficult for some learners who have accessibility needs.
  5. If you are using Respondus Lockdown Browser in a classroom setting, please note:
    • DO create a mock test for students to test the software
    • DO consider book a computer lab where Respondus is installed
    • DO consider the room you are in: Does it have enough plugs? Is wifi stable? Have you tested wifi?
    • DO NOT use Respondus for Tramble students as it interferes with reading software. Be aware that if a problem occurs, IT personnel may not be able to assist.
  6. If you are not using Respondus Lockdown Browser but are having students write on Moodle, please consider: 
    • DO have a robust Question Bank to optimize randomization. 
    • DO set a time limit to the test. 

Flow chart: Should you use digital exams? (printable PDF available on the right side of the page under Attachments)

Resources:

Creating a Question Bank

Respondus Best Practices

 

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