Exams and exam sittings

Over the previous months it has proven difficult to find a viable long-distance alternative to the written invigilated exam. Lower-order learning objectives (remembering and understanding) in particular suffer when tested under these less than ideal circumstances, in which there is little to no control over the student’s direct environment and which is therefore potentially susceptible to fraudulent behaviour.  On this page, we offer a number of suggestions for long-distance alternative examination, together with their prerequisites and advice about when to use them. Prior to these suggestions, you will find some general starting points to consider before opting for one of the exam alternatives.

About online proctoring

Start from the learning objectives

In order to determine if a student has met the desired learning objectives, tests and exams will need to be designed with these in mind. This is no different for online courses. Current circumstances may require that you find alternative routes for students to gain the necessary knowledge and insights, however. This may take the form of alternative ways of teaching and imparting knowledge, that cover the learning objectives .

Consider adjustments to your course design as well as alternatives to testing and examination (both formative and summative) that corresponds to the course and its objectives. We recommend starting with the testing and examination options, before finding teaching and work methods aid the student in meeting the learning objectives of the course.

Divide your course into modules

It can be a good idea to break down your course into smaller parts or modules. Ideally, there are thematically organised, and linked to a limited set of learning objectives. Each module can then have its own (formative or summative) assessment. Cumulative testing is also an option; you van integrate older previously assessed content with newer course content in your testing to ensure students are able to integrate the various course modules. A modular approach offers a clear structure for both student and teacher, and makes it easier to monitor progress.

Combine formative and summative testing

The aim of testing and assessment is twofold: to determine if students have met the learning objectives (summative) and to monitor the student’s progress more generally (formative). There tends to be an emphasis on summative testing, however, formative testing is of equal importance for both students and teachers. It is through formative testing that students and teachers obtain insight into the learning processes, progress and the road towards meeting the learning objectives.

Long-distance formative testing options may include peer feedback, mid-term assignments, or weekly quizzes, for instance. Formative testing is relatively immune to fraudulent behaviour, because results do not count towards course grades.

Align testing and communication between courses within the curriculum

Designing the curriculum and aligning the courses within it, as well as facilitating communication between courses is hugely beneficial. Students are aided by clear structure and uniform communication, whenever possible.

The table below offers an overview of various long-distance exam alternatives. For each alternative, parameters are given relating to the level of the learning objectives, the student numbers and time investment. The learning objectives are divided into higher-order objectives like application, analysis and evaluation.

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