How to Use Computer-Based Examination System
Assessments play an important role in judging learners’ efficiency at all levels of education. They give a clear picture of the understanding group. Assessments have been an integral part of the evaluation process for a long time. Carefully crafted assessments target accurately the areas to be evaluated and motivate learners. Traditional examination systems assessed learners using pen-and-paper. In the digital era, the internet and electronic gadgets have become ubiquitous. This has given rise to innovative ways of testing. This blog aims to simplify the use of computer-based examination system and why and how institutions can make a switch.
Computer-based examinations (CBT) refer to any exam that takes place through a computer. It is an umbrella term that includes online exams. Computer-based exams are conducted in a client-server environment. They are less resource intensive and have eliminated the hassles of traditional examination systems like arranging exam centers, training invigilators, and printing question papers. Test-takers can take the exam from anywhere with a stable internet connection, making it a favorable choice, especially for remote learners. They can be monitored using proctors, thus maintaining the integrity of the system.
How computer-based examination system works
Conducting exams using a computer-based examination system is not as hard as it may seem. The system increases efficiency as administrative tasks are automated and uphold the integrity of exams with its strong security features.
Step 1 – Installation of Software
After purchasing a Computer-based Test Software, first, get it installed in your system.
Step 2 – Create the Exam
Upload the necessary questions on the examination system. Most online examination software can be integrated with Learning Management Systems (LMS). A variety of questions can be uploaded, ranging from multiple-choice questions, fill-in-the-blanks, audio/video questions, and essay-based questions.
Step 3- Sending Invitations
Details of test-takers are uploaded on the software. Exam invites are then sent after which they can choose a suitable slot.
Step 4 – Identity Authentication
Before the exam starts, test-takers are subject to a screening like biometric scans, ID authentication, and, screen recording to ensure that the authorized person only sits for the test.
Step 5 – Grading and Results
The system automatically grades the examinations and generates detailed results for every test-taker.
The scope of the computer-based examination system is wide. There is an abundance of options to choose from but Pesofts is the best computer-based examination software and a one-stop solution for all your needs. The online exam software is intuitive and user-friendly and offers a set of comprehensive features to create, conduct, and monitor examinations. Real-time proctoring, dynamic question types, detailed result analysis, and data security are some of them. It also provides hands-on expertise and 24/7 customer support to resolve your queries.
Advantages of Computer-based examination system
Here is a list of advantages that a Computer-based examination system provides-
Enhanced Accessibility
Computer-based examination system has made it possible for test-takers to attempt the examination from anywhere in the world. All they require is a stable internet connection and a laptop. This is particularly advantageous for candidates who hail from remote locations.
Increased Efficiency
The system increases the overall efficiency of the system. It automates administrative processes like scheduling exams, registration, test creation, and grading. Not only this, invigilation of the examination is also done by remote proctors. The scope of the computer-based examination system is very wide.
Secure Examinations
Computer-based examination systems uphold the integrity of the system. Features like randomization of questions, plagiarism checkers, and time limits help to eliminate instances of cheating. Advanced AI-integrated remote proctors continuously keep a check on the activities of the test-taker and raise warnings when they notice any suspicious activity.
Time Saving and Cost-effective
Online exams eliminate the logistic and paperwork costs that have to be incurred when exams are conducted traditionally. Also, it saves time as most of the administrative work is automated. Institutions save a lot of time which can be used to do other important things.
Flexibility and Adaptability
The objective of the computer-based examination system is to provide flexibility to test-taking in terms of scheduling exams. Test-takers can take the exam according to their time zones. They can take the exam from anywhere with a stable internet connection and any device like a smartphone, tablet, or laptop.
Auto – grading
The examination system automatically provides a detailed analysis of each test-taker. It includes their scores and areas of strength and weakness. It can be used to provide personalized learning. Using this data, educators can also create a comparative analysis and improve their teaching method accordingly.
Scalability
Scalability is a crucial part of the computer-based examination system. The system is designed in a way that it can accommodate a large number of test-takers at a time. It can conduct exams efficiently and remain responsive and reliable without any compromise.
The objective of a Computer-based examination system is to ease the examination process and give a reliable method to evaluate the knowledge of test-takers.
How to choose the right computer-based examination system
Choosing the right computer-based examination system can be a tedious task, especially for someone with no experience. You have to consider a large number of factors before making a decision. Here are a few points to keep in mind –
Ease of Use
The software must be user-friendly. Users should be able to create and conduct exams easily with no or little training. Also, preferably the software should be web or cloud-based with no compulsion of installing or downloading the software.
Default Proctoring Feature
The software should have an inbuilt proctoring feature. The integrity of the examination is maintained only when test-takers take the test without using any unfair means. The proctor should be able to detect instances of cheating by using the test-taker’s webcam, recording his screen, and through the microphone.
Integration with Existing System
Most institutes already use a learning management system (LMS) so the computer-based examination should be such that it can sync data from the existing system. Additionally, it will be beneficial if the system has the feature of white labeling.
Customer Support
Customer support service plays a crucial role when it comes to technology. Any software is subject to technical issues and glitches which should be quickly resolved. Software providers that have a 24*7 support service should be chosen.
Scope of examination
Choose the software in which you can add a variety of questions. Ranging from Multiple Choice Questions, essay types, objective types, subjective types, skills-based, personality testing types, and simulation questions.
Keep the above-mentioned points in mind before buying the right software for your organization. Another important aspect is your budget. Choose the software provider that gives you a free trial and lets you surf through the features of the software.
How to smoothly make a switch to a computer-based examination system
Understand your goals and objective
Research your needs. Assess how making a switch will help you meet your goals and objectives. Clearly define how a switch will benefit you, be it in terms of cost-saving, increasing efficiency, or strengthening security.
Create a well-defined plan
Develop a timeline showing your short-term goals along with their deadlines. Define the role and responsibility of the stakeholders who will help to achieve your goal. Check the readiness of your existing IT infrastructure. Make sure they are compatible with the examination software, otherwise upgrade them.
Choose the right software
A lot of software is available in the market. Choose the one that satisfies all your needs and fits your pocket. For more information, refer to the above paragraph.
Review and make changes
Involve all stakeholders in the process to avoid resistance later. Take suggestions from them and make necessary changes. Before launching the system, do a pilot run with a few students and teachers.
Future of Computer-Based Examination System
Considering two sides of a coin, computer-based examination systems have their disadvantages too. Network issues that result in delaying or postponing the examination, and security issues like data breaches and hacking. Still, all the crucial competitive exams like National level online entrance examinations and online recruiting examinations for prestigious institutes, have embraced the Computer-Based Examination System.
As technology develops, it will continue to upgrade the functioning of computer-based examinations. Integration of AI and machine learning will help in crafting creative examinations according to the skill level of test-takers. Remote proctoring is expected to become more advanced and will overcome the current cheating trends. Blockchain technology will be used to store the credentials of test-takers, thereby making authentication easy and reducing the risk of fraud.
Conclusion
It is imperative to master a computer-based examination system to excel in today’s dynamic educational landscape. It is a vital tool that adds flexibility and increases the efficiency of the examination system. Embrace this technology to put forward a step towards modern assessment.
The computer-based examination system will play a significant role in shaping future assessments. Make a decision today to start enhancing your journey with this innovation. Pesoft offers the best computer-based examination system at an affordable price. We provide a free trial so that you can try all the functionalities before making a purchase. Give us a call, we will be happy to serve you!
Manjeet Mehta CEO @Pesofts
Manjeet Mehta is a professional writer and also the CEO @Pesofts. He passed out from IIT Roorkee in 2013 and started their own business, thinking of the growing education sector with the help of technology. You can check out LinkedIn and follow him here LinkedIn