Since it is getting to be mid term and I had not written a post for a while that it might be worth some time to investigate the Blackboard Test engine. This was started by a question to my listserv that I belong to that includes Blackboard administrators from around the country. So we got together online and shared this:
- Use pools and random blocks to ensure that no two students get the same exam. (directions to come)
Use display-one-at-a-time without backtracking to 1. save each answer as you go along, and 2. make it a little harder to cheat Set a reasonable time limit so students understand they're not supposed to be looking up the answers.
Don't use the same exact questions year after year.
Give clear directions about how long the exam should take.
Use the Blackboard Assignment Tool for essay tests. This will give the students a chance to think about the questions; then type them up and save them. You can still set time limits by setting the assignment to expire at a specific time.
Use other ways to assess deep learning through authentic activities such as projects and writing assignments rather than BB tests.
For faculty giving tests in a non-proctored setting, we are recommending using adaptive release to provide testing processes before making the test available. Here's an example of test taking expectations & procedures:
Even though you are taking your mid-term and final exams online, they are still "real" tests. Following are the testing proceedures I expect you to follow while taking the exams.
--You are to take the test by yourself. No group efforts or help from other people in answering the test questions.
-- You may use your book. However, the test is timed. You will not have time to look up every question.
-- You have 60 minutes to complete the 50 question test. A timer appears, and the test continues until you click the submit button. You must submit your test before 60 minutes have elapsed.
-- The test does not automatically stop at 60 minutes. You have to click "Submit" to end the test and stop the timer.
-- If you go over the 60 minute time limit, for the first minute over 60 minutes you will loose 2 points. -- Each part of a minute after 61 minutes will result in the loss of an additional 5 points per minute.
-- If something happens and your computer freezes, get back into the test as quickly as you can. As soon as you complete the test, send me an email detailing your problem.
-- If you loose your ability to access the Internet during a test, use your phone to call my office (595-XXXX) as soon as possible. Leave a voice mail if it is after hours. Do not wait until later.
Click the Marked Reviewed button to the right to show you understand these proceedures and expectations. The link to the test will not be visible until you have clicked the Marked Review button (and it is within the testing dates as stated on the Schedule of Assignments).
These are just some of the recommendations that have been given by people across the country. I will have some information coming about Random Blocks, Pools, and Adaptive Release.
Nancy