Online exams have been practiced for a long time. However, it gained popularity after the pandemic, when the world shut down for a significant amount of time. In this blog, we will discuss online exams vs traditional exams in higher education and how they affect academic integrity.
Let’s See The Difference: Online Exams Vs Traditional Exams
Traditional pen paper exams differ from online examination systems in many ways. Let us know them in details:
Online Exam Systems Vs Traditional Examination
Online exams are mainly conducted by a computer or internet-connected device on a digital examination platform, while traditional exams are typically paper-based.
Accommodations In Online Exams
Teachers can take exams from any location with a reliable internet connection, whereas traditional exams are usually taken in a designated physical location, such as a classroom or exam hall.
Greater Flexibility And Convenience
Online exams offer more flexibility in timing and scheduling, allowing students to take the exam at a time that suits them within a specified timeframe. Traditional exams are often scheduled at a specific date and time.
Monitoring And Proctoring
Online exams may rely on various methods for monitoring, such as webcam proctoring or specialized software, while invigilators or proctors typically monitor traditional exams in person.
Cybersecurity In Online Exams
Ensuring the security of the exam is typically more challenging with online exams due to the potential for cheating or unauthorized access to resources. Traditional exams may have stricter security measures, such as controlled entry and monitoring of exam rooms.
Accessibility In Exam Formats
Online exams may feature different question formats, such as multiple-choice, short answer, or essay questions, while traditional exams often consist of handwritten responses to essay or short answer questions.
Assessing Student Learning
Online assessments may evaluate immediate or provide real-time feedback to students upon completion, while grading for traditional exams may take longer and require manual instructor assessment.
Technical Issues
Online exams may be susceptible to technical issues such as internet connectivity issues in exams or software glitches, which can disrupt the exam-taking process. Traditional paper exams are generally less affected by technical problems.
Testing Environment
Online exams allow students to choose their exam environment, which can be advantageous or disadvantageous depending on individual preferences. Traditional closed-book exams provide a consistent exam environment for all students.
Environmental Sustainability
Online exams are often considered more environmentally sustainable than traditional paper-based testing or paper-based exams due to reduced paper usage. Traditional exams require a significant amount of exam papers for question papers, answer sheets, and other exam materials. In contrast, online exams are paperless and reduce the environmental impact associated with paper usage, making them a more eco-friendly option.
Read On: Test Anxiety and Online Exams
Online Exams And Mental Health Of Students
Indeed, here are some key points regarding the impact of online exams on students’ mental health:
Extended Screen Time: Online exams frequently necessitate long periods of screen time, which leads to eye strain, fatigue, and mental exhaustion.
Isolation: Students may feel isolated and disconnected from their peers and instructors during online exams, which can contribute to feelings of loneliness and disengagement.
Technical Issues: Technical glitches, such as internet connectivity problems or platform malfunctions, can cause frustration and anxiety, disrupting the exam-taking process and raising stress levels.
Pressure to Perform: The pressure to perform well in online exams can cause students to experience increased stress and anxiety.
Cheating Concerns: The remote nature of online exams may tempt some students to cheat, resulting in feelings of guilt, fear of consequences, and moral quandaries that can negatively impact mental health.
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Exam Integrity In Online Vs. Traditional Settings
The National Institute for Learning Outcomes conducted research in which they administered the Academic Dishonesty Assessment to undergraduate and graduate students from various faculties (n = 635). The study discovered that 32.7% of respondents admitted to cheating in an online course, and 32.1% admitted to cheating in an in-person course. However, the data also revealed that students resort to cheating to get answers during an online quiz or test more than an in-person one (23.2-18.1%). In contrast, students in an in-person course tended to cheat through other assignments.
This is where the proctoring systems came in. Let’s examine how the proctoring systems worked to maintain exam integrity.
Online Proctoring Software: Changing Online Exams in Higher Education
Integrating these online exam software and proctoring technology, educational institutes prohibit cheating and the use of AI in assessments and exams. Online examinations are now conducted in a proctored environment with the help of software like Proctorio, ProctorU, Honorlock, Respondus Lockdown Browser, and so on because these proctoring systems prohibit students from switching tabs and recording students via webcam and system’s mic. Exams with remote proctoring betters the long-term impact of online exams on education. Online proctored exams can maintain academic integrity and encourage students to succeed genuinely.
Are Hybrid Exam Models The Future Of Examination System?
Hybrid exam models combine traditional in-person exams with online components. This approach provides several benefits in student learning:
- Flexibility: Students can take exams online or in person, accommodating a variety of schedules and preferences. This flexibility benefits non-traditional students, working professionals, and people with mobility issues.
- Scalability: Online components enable larger-scale exams, allowing institutions to evaluate more students more efficiently. This scalability is critical for accommodating growing student populations or providing courses to a diverse audience.
- Diverse Assessment Methods: Hybrid models integrate a variety of assessment formats, including multiple-choice, essays, simulations, and multimedia submissions. This diversity enables a more comprehensive assessment of students’ knowledge and skills.
- Accessibility: Online components may include accommodations for students with disabilities, such as screen readers, alternative formats, or extended time. This guarantees equal access to exams for all students.
- Technological Advancements: Digital platforms allow for implementing advanced assessment tools such as automated grading, plagiarism detection, and adaptive testing algorithms. These tools improve efficiency and provide more detailed insights into student performance.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the digital divide and exam accessibility form a bridge between students and teachers. It is essential to maintain fair and effective online education. By implementing inclusive assessment practices and hybrid exam models, educators may meet various academic preferences and requirements, ensuring that each student has equal opportunities for success.
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