Computer-based tests entail a radical change in India’s education sector

The digital tornado and technological advancements have had a magnanimous impact on our lives. Everything is simpler and more robust than ever. In the wake of this revolution, almost every single process is going paperless: banking, bills, newspaper, assessments and what not. It has permeated almost all the spheres of our life, including the way we take exams.

The traditional method of examination has been replaced with computer-based tests. The latter being more advanced, offers a multitude of convenience to the examiners, organizers as well as the students. It helps in mitigating the common issues pertaining to ‘exam-leak’ and ‘cheating’. The conspiratorial arc that deals with the presence of human element and rogue agent in test taking systems has strongly declined with computerized testing. A number of prestigious academic examinations including CAT, GMAT, GRE, among others, have moved from paper-based test to computer-based exams.

The versatile format of computer-based tests helps organizers in creating randomized exams that actually engage test-takers far more than paper exams. Also, these tests come with a supplementary option of adding videos, images, sound clips, PDFs to enrich the content. The use of multimedia makes a test inclusive for all types of test-takers, especially the visual learners and differently-abled people. They also help in streamlining the tests with proper synchronization of examination across all the test centers.Scrapping the computer-based system would entail benefits to the corrupt education junta in the country.

As a matter of fact, the techno-savvy youngsters these days make use of bizarre devices to cheat in exams. It significantly reduces the quality of a test, making the test results less reliable and valid. To counter this, a number of testing and assessment companies like Prometric, strive to nab those who resort to cheat in exams. The idea is simple, beating technology with technology.

Prometric,a globally-recognized leader in high-stakes test development and delivery,has incorporated the latest security considerations and recommendations to conduct computer-based testing. It employs high standard of technology to ensure that the exams are conducted in a sanctified manner.

The company has implemented a comprehensive identity management solution, including electronic identification document verification coupled with a biometric fingertip scan and digital photo. The solution helps in ensuring the highest level of security during the exams as the candidate is required to enter his/her login details, followed by the biometric test. Also, the process of data collection is carried out not only during exam check-in procedures but throughout the duration of test. The company verifies the credentials of the examinee against a centralized data of previous examinee records.Further reinforcing its cybersecurity defenses, Prometric even became a member of Center for Internet Security (CIS) Security Benchmarks.

Certainly, the extensive benefits of computer-based tests reflect their potential efficacy in bolstering the current education system and its credibility. This robust transition will broaden the horizon of India’s education sector.