An eExam (e-exam) is a timed, supervised, summative assessment conducted using each candidate’s own computer running a standardised operating system. Such examinations have advantages over paper-based exams, and can include new multi-media, simulation and software test items which give higher validity in respect of professional work practice.
Contents
Definition
eExams fall into the category of eAssessment, where students demonstrate academic achievement using computers. Within this broad spectrum, eExams form a distinct use of technology where a ‘bring your own device’ (BYOD) computer is started up (booted) from a USB flash drive. Because each computer is booted from a USB flash drive, every candidate uses the same full operating system and application programs, irrespective of those installed on the internal hard drive. eExams optionally include networking connections, but these are usually restricted or eliminated to prevent collusion. Unlike most online quiz tools, the eExam is not restricted to a web-page, but makes the whole candidate computer available for the assessment. eExams are seen as having potential for curriculum transformation by changing the nature of assessment to fully incorporate computer technology. Autosave is a common feature of eExams, with intervals from 10 seconds to every 2 minutes. Some emerging models have been released into the public domain, and others are proprietary commercial material (with costs).
Emerging models
Similar systems
Each of these similar systems offers a basic word processor and multiple choice question functionality outside a web-page.
Challenges
Many innovations face reactionary challenges in the social, political and technical spheres. Objections focus on the unreliability of computer equipment or the potential for cheating. Some ‘hacks’ against eExams use cooling of the computer RAM to 0 degrees Celsius, when the contents can be preserved for about 45 seconds. This is irrelevant if the exam question paper is published after the assessment and open source software is used (since the material is put in the public domain anyway). These criticisms have been answered by a risk tree comparison with paper-based examinations, finding the typing and handwriting in examinations are similarly secure
Outcomes
Studies have indicated that candidates have a bi-modal response to eExams, with some loving them, others hating them. Benefits include the capacity to edit responses without trace and ease of text production through typing (20% more words in the same time, for instance). Candidate fears focus on worry the technology will fail and lose typed answers. Curriculum reform appears possible, but few published studies have illustrated this to any great degree.