In the last couple of years, mainly due to the COVID pandemic, and the fact that most academic institutions had to pivot to survive and continue providing key services, online testing platforms have evolved — not only that, they have become the norm. Traditional testing has been replaced in many cases by this avant-garde model. In this article, we’re going to give you the scoop on what online testing is, a bit about its history, and the 6 things you should consider when purchasing the best online testing software.
What is online testing software?
Online testing software is an integral part of today’s academic ecosystem. It has been around for over 40 years in some form or another. Online testing software is used for a variety of purposes. It can be employed for online tests that assess the knowledge of the examinees, or it can be used for online quizzes to test the skills of the examinees. They are no longer limited, thanks to AI and machine learning, to multiple choice questions — but can actually take into consideration essay questions and other forms of testing.
The software also offers adaptive learning, which means that it will adjust to the level of difficulty according to how well the user is performing and provide content that is more challenging if they are answering questions correctly. This type of software can also help teachers with their lessons by providing them with feedback on their student’s performance, as well as providing them with resources that they need to teach their students better.
In recent years, online testing has been used for different purposes such as assessment, tutoring, and training. This is because many people are now getting their education from online courses.
The first online testing was done in the early 1990s. It was created by a company called Pearson. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the world saw a rise in online testing as more and more companies started using it. The reason for this is that they can scale up their workforce without having to hire new HR staff or take on new hiring space.
Its biggest jump occurred in late 2010 when the hiring department started to adapt its tech in a widespread manner. Online testing is now being used not only in academia but in other industries due to its amazing capacity to evaluate a person — in many cases possible recruits and talents. The system enables companies to test candidates in an online environment. It has many advantages over the traditional in-person interview process. One of them is that it can be done from any location and at any time. Another advantage is that it can be done anonymously, which removes a recruiter’s innate bias from the process.
Tips on how to selector the best online testing software
Not all online testing platforms are the same — Before you decide which online testing software to choose, you should consider a few essential factors.
Interface
The platform and software should be easy to use. It should be dynamic, initiative, and incredibly simple. This will make it more user-friendly not only for your organization but for teachers and students.
Support system
Contacting customer service and getting patches, as well as updates, is important. Most software updates have to do with cybersecurity issues. It’s important to have them properly installed since these tests accumulate a lot of personal data. Support systems need to have staff members standing by 24/7 for your convenience.
Remote Features
Remote proctoring feature — one of the biggest benefits when it comes to online testing, its biggest feature, is the fact that folks can access them globally. They should be easy to deploy in any digital environment. They should not be limited by the physical location of the academic institute.
Assessment security
From fingerprint scanners to facial recognition, and multiple other tools, online testing software has to utilize the latest tech to safeguard the integrity of the exam. To make sure that the test takers aren’t cheating.
Real-time report
Assessment analytics and reporting should be automatic and done in a flash — most of these tests give real-time metrics and reports as the test is being taken. This allows the test taker to understand while answering questions, key measurements in regards to their performance.
Scalability
Virtual machine environments and software have a huge advantage over the traditional models — they can be deployed and scaled in a matter of seconds, if properly coded. It’s important when deciding on a platform for online testing, to make sure that this function has been properly integrated into its digital DNA.
Is online assessment software worth the investment?
Online testing software provides several benefits to organizations and individuals.
Online testing software helps in providing access to a much larger pool of testers. It also helps in reducing the time and cost involved in recruiting testers. In academia, it lessens costs, makes tests more secure, and even eases the test taker’s anxiety.
For recruiters, it helps them fill up positions faster with better talent. How much faster 57% according to some HR departments.
Finally, for retail, online testing software makes it possible for companies to save on production costs, which can be used elsewhere. It also provides an opportunity for organizations to test their products or services before launching them into the market.
