How to Give a Computer-Based Test?

Giving a computer-based test (CBT) involves leveraging technology to deliver, administer, and evaluate exams efficiently, offering a modern alternative to traditional paper-and-pencil methods. This approach streamlines the assessment process for both educators and test-takers, relying on candidates to sit in front of a computer, interact with the questions on screen, and submit answers using input devices like a keyboard and mouse. A central server plays a critical role in preparing and distributing the question papers to each connected testing computer.

Here's a comprehensive breakdown of how to give a computer-based test:

1. Planning and Content Creation

The initial phase focuses on meticulous planning and developing high-quality test content.

Defining Test Objectives

Clearly identify what skills, knowledge, or competencies the test aims to measure. This guides the entire development process.

Developing a Robust Question Bank

Create a diverse pool of questions covering various topics and difficulty levels. This typically includes:

Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs): Ideal for objective assessment and automated grading.
True/False Questions: Simple and quick to answer.
Fill-in-the-Blanks: Tests specific recall.
Descriptive/Essay Questions: Allows for subjective evaluation of analytical and writing skills.
Drag-and-Drop or Hotspot Questions: For interactive and visual assessments.

Selecting an Online Examination Platform

Choose a reliable and feature-rich software solution that can handle all aspects of the test. Key features to look for include:

Question Bank Management: Easy import, categorization, and editing of questions.
Test Authoring Tools: Ability to create various question types and set test parameters (duration, number of questions, scoring).
Security Features: Anti-cheating measures, browser lockdown, and secure data transmission.
Reporting and Analytics: Tools to generate detailed results and insights.
Scalability: Capacity to handle the expected number of candidates simultaneously.

2. Setting Up the Test Environment

Proper infrastructure and configuration are essential for a smooth testing experience.

Infrastructure Preparation

Computers: Ensure a sufficient number of functional computers for all candidates.
Network: Set up a stable and secure local area network (LAN) or wireless network. Each testing computer connects to a central server, which is responsible for preparing the question paper and securely transmitting it to individual candidate screens.
Power Backup: Implement Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems to prevent data loss or test interruptions due to power outages.
Testing Venues: Designate a quiet and conducive environment, whether a dedicated computer lab or a remote setup.

Software Deployment and Configuration

Platform Installation: Install the chosen online examination software on the central server and client applications on each testing computer.
Test Configuration: Upload the prepared question papers, set time limits, assign sections, and configure scoring rules within the platform.
Security Settings: Activate features like browser lockdown, copy-paste restrictions, and screen monitoring to maintain test integrity.

Candidate Registration and Access Management

Register all candidates in the system, assigning unique login credentials (username and password) to ensure secure access to their specific examination.

3. Test Delivery and Candidate Experience

This phase focuses on how candidates interact with the system during the test.

Candidate Login and Test Access

Authentication: At the scheduled time, candidates log into the system using their unique credentials.
Exam Delivery: Once authenticated, the server securely delivers the personalized question paper to the candidate's computer screen.

Answering Questions

Candidates interact with the test interface primarily using a keyboard and mouse.

For multiple-choice questions, candidates use the mouse to click on their chosen answer option.
For descriptive or fill-in-the-blanks questions, they use the keyboard to type their responses.
The interface typically provides navigation buttons (e.g., "Next," "Previous," "Mark for Review") and a visible timer to manage time effectively.

Submission Process

Once all questions are attempted, candidates submit their answers digitally, usually by clicking a prominent "Submit" button. All responses are then securely transmitted back to the central server for processing and evaluation.

4. Monitoring and Proctoring

Maintaining test integrity is crucial, whether the test is conducted on-site or remotely.

On-Site Invigilation

Human invigilators or proctors are present in the testing room to:

Verify candidate identities.
Address technical issues.
Monitor candidate behavior for any suspicious activities.

Remote Proctoring (Optional)

For tests administered remotely, advanced proctoring solutions can be employed. These often involve:

Webcam Monitoring: AI-powered systems can flag suspicious movements or presence of unauthorized individuals.
Screen Sharing: Monitoring the candidate's computer screen to ensure no unauthorized applications or websites are accessed.
Audio Monitoring: Detecting unauthorized communication.

5. Evaluation and Reporting

After the test, the focus shifts to grading and performance analysis.

Automated and Manual Grading

Automated Grading: For objective questions (MCQs, true/false), the system can instantly grade answers, providing immediate results.
Manual Grading: For subjective questions, evaluators can access candidate submissions through the platform and grade them efficiently.

Performance Analytics and Reporting

A robust CBT platform provides detailed insights:

Individual Performance Reports: Show scores, attempted questions, time spent, and areas of strength/weakness for each candidate.
Group Performance Analysis: Provide aggregate statistics, identify common misconceptions, and assess overall test effectiveness.
Question-Level Analysis: Helps identify ambiguous or poorly performing questions, aiding in future test improvements.

Key Features of a Robust Computer-Based Testing Platform

Feature	Description	Benefit
Secure Browser	Locks down the candidate's browser during the test.	Prevents access to unauthorized applications/sites.
Question Randomization	Presents questions in different orders to candidates.	Minimizes cheating and content leakage.
Real-time Analytics	Provides immediate data on test progress and results.	Enables quick decision-making and interventions.
Scalability	Supports a large number of concurrent test-takers.	Accommodates diverse testing needs.
Integration	Connects with Learning Management Systems (LMS) or HR platforms.	Streamlines data flow and user management.

By following these steps, institutions can effectively give and manage computer-based tests, ensuring security, efficiency, and accurate assessment outcomes.