Last updated: 11 Nov 2024 09:00 Posted in: AIA
Patrick Coates explores the benefits of online exams, the positive impact of online proctoring in accountancy and how to prepare effectively for exams.
While digital assessment may seem like a new innovation, the technology has been pervasive since the 1990s, particularly with IT exams and professional institutions. The e-Assessment Association (eAA) was founded in 2008 to share the benefits that technology brings to assessment.
For any students studying for professional qualifications like accountancy, exams can be a daunting experience. The disconnect between the digital tools used in daily professional life and the pen-and-paper methods used in exams has often been a source of frustration. Many professional bodies have been using online exams for many years and more recently, partially driven by the pandemic, there is a growing recognition of the benefits that remote invigilation (online proctoring) can bring.
The benefits of online exams and remote invigilation
The transition to online exams in accountancy has been a natural progression in reflecting an increasingly digital world with many benefits.
Exam content: Online exams can facilitate the use of item types that reflect the practical application of skills, as you would do in the workplace.
Faster and more reliable results: Digital assessments can result in quicker grading and feedback. For those awaiting results for career advancement, this can be a significant advantage. The ability to receive results faster not only reduces anxiety but also allows for more timely decision-making, whether it’s applying for a promotion or pursuing a new role.
Environmental benefits: Online exams generally eliminate the need for paper, reducing the environmental impact associated with traditional exams. Additionally, the risk of exam papers being lost in transit is eliminated, ensuring that all exams are accounted for and marked promptly. The digital format also facilitates more reliable and consistent marking, as automated systems can assist in evaluating the objective components of exams, reducing the potential for human error.
Improving learning: The data generated by online exams provides valuable insights into student performance. This data can be used to identify common areas of difficulty, allowing educators to tailor their teaching strategies to better support students.
The move to online proctored exams is a natural progression from this, as the exam delivery technology is the same – it is just that the person invigilating the exam is based remotely, rather than in a test centre.
Flexibility and convenience: Students no longer need to travel to a physical exam centre, saving time, reducing stress and allowing them to take exams in a comfortable and familiar environment. This flexibility is especially beneficial for those juggling studies with work commitments, as it allows them to better manage their time and reduce the logistical challenges associated with traditional exams.
Enhanced fairness and integrity: Remote invigilation employs advanced technologies, including AI and webcam monitoring to maintain the integrity of the exam process. This ensures that all students are assessed on a level playing field, mitigating concerns over cheating and reinforcing the credibility of the qualifications earned. The use of digital invigilation tools provides an additional layer of security, making it more difficult for dishonest practices to occur and ensuring that the value of the qualification is upheld.
Increased capacity: Test centre capacity can be limited and remotely invigilated exams, in theory, have unlimited capacity.
Overcoming the fear of online and remotely proctored exams
Despite the clear benefits, the transition to online exams can be intimidating for some students. As with any exam, make sure you prepare in advance. Take practice or mock tests as much as possible. Embracing this change rather than fearing it is key to success.
Familiarisation with technology: Anxiety often stems from the unknown. By familiarising yourself with the online exam platform the process becomes less intimidating, and you can approach your exams with confidence. Most institutions provide access to practice sessions or mock exams using the actual software, allowing you to become comfortable with the format before the real test. Taking advantage of these resources is crucial in reducing anxiety and building confidence.
Accommodations: Remotely proctored exams will work with assistive technologies. Please take the time to check beforehand if you are not sure. The exam provider will make sure you are not disadvantaged in any way as you are using your own machine – it should be much easier than using one in a test centre. As with any exam you can get extra time as needed, so please make sure you let the right people know in plenty of time when you are looking at registering for the exam.
Understanding the exam process: When you log on, you will be required to confirm your identity – a process designed to ensure fairness and security. This may involve showing identification and performing a room scan to verify that you are alone and free of unauthorised materials.
Preparing your environment: Creating a conducive environment for your exam is essential. Ensure that you have a quiet, well-lit space with a clear desk free from distractions.
You should also check that your technology meets the necessary requirements, including a reliable internet connection, functioning webcam and the appropriate software installed on your device. Most exam platforms provide detailed guidance on these requirements, so be sure to review them well in advance of your exam date.
Managing technical issues: While technical problems can be stressful, most online exam platforms have robust support systems in place. If you encounter a technical issue during your exam, don’t panic. Contact the invigilator or technical support immediately. Knowing that help is just a click away can provide peace of mind and allow you to focus on your exam.
Secure data security: Data protection is a legitimate concern in the digital age, but it is taken seriously by all reputable organisations. Personal data is only kept for the minimum time necessary, and data used to improve systems and exams is anonymised. This ensures that your privacy is protected while still allowing for the continuous improvement of the exam process.
Prepare well: Preparation is key to success in any exam, and online exams are no different. Being familiar with the exam format, working through practice papers, good time management and incorporating stress-relief techniques into your routine will all help you prepare for the exam.
What does the future hold?
While the pandemic has accelerated a trend that was already gaining momentum, many educational institutions and professional bodies have recognised the benefits digital assessment can bring.
Each year the e-Assessment Association hosts the International e-Assessment Awards. In 2021, the Best Transformational Project was won by an accountancy body which recognised the importance of moving to digital assessment and the benefits this would bring to their students.
In the future, we are likely to see AI playing a greater role in personalising exams, providing real-time feedback and ensuring even greater fairness and accuracy in assessment. AI-driven tools may also help to identify areas where students need additional support, making the learning process more efficient and targeted. As more exams are conducted online, the data generated by online exams will continue to drive improvements in the assessment process, leading to better-designed exams that more accurately assess the skills and knowledge required for success in the accounting profession.
In addition, the flexibility of remotely proctored exams could open up new opportunities for students around the world. With fewer geographical barriers, education and professional qualifications will become more accessible, fostering a more diverse and inclusive community within the field of accountancy.
As the world continues to move toward a digital-first approach, online exams will become an increasingly integral part of the educational landscape. For accountancy students, this is an opportunity to not only adapt to a new mode of assessment but to thrive in it. The future of exams is digital, and by embracing this change, you will be better prepared for both your exams and your career beyond
About the eAA
Founded in 2008, the e-Assessment Association is an international not-for-profit membership organisation representing all industry sectors with an interest in e-Assessment, including schools, further education and higher education through to qualification providers, regulators, technology providers and industry consultants. With over 5,000 members worldwide, we have three main goals:
Author biography
Patrick Coates is CEO of the e-Assessment Association, representing the interest of over 5,000 individual members and key industry suppliers located around the world.
