Remote Proctor scores top marks
12th April 2011, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, UK... APMG’s Remote Proctor technology has been piloted by Accredited Training Provider Afiniti to support candidates taking its online PRINCE2® courses and exams. The Remote Proctor enables candidates to take their exam in their own home or other accessible location. When they are unable to travel to an exam centre, the Remote Proctor enables candidates to take web-based exams anywhere, anytime, while still maintaining the same exam-room integrity as found in a proctored classroom.
Afiniti reports that candidates trialling the proctor had a largely positive experience. Sue Sargent, Training Co-ordinator said, “The Remote Proctor device gives our online training more credibility, the technology has improved from our original piloting of the device, and participants are now able to continue their experience totally online.
“Exams using the device are a greener option - totally paper free - no need for costly time and travel to examination centres and it gives candidates the advantage of receiving immediate results. The Pilot delegates reported that they successfully installed the technology within a 15-30 minute timescale,” Sargent said.
Some of the pilot candidates provided feedback on the process and technology:
“Setting up the proctor was quick and straightforward. Using it for the exam was equally straightforward and, being in my own home, allowed me to select exactly when I did the exam, fitting it conveniently among other activities and permitted a last minute change of schedule. It was a good and easy way to take the exams.”
“It was all very smooth from start to finish!”
Richard Pharro, CEO, APMG said, “Every year, thousands of APMG candidates take distance learning courses with our Accredited Training Organizations. Many of those candidates struggle to get to an open centre to take their examination - the long distances, travelling expenses and the inconvenience all contribute to making it a difficult and stressful time for them.
“APMG is delighted it can now offer those candidates who find it difficult to get to an exam centre the opportunity to take a secure examination in the comfort of their own home. We’re delighted to work with companies like Afiniti who embrace innovation.”
Richard said he was delighted that Afiniti has been working to pilot the system. He noted that some candidates required support which can be provided during APMG UK office hours. A 24-hour operational support scheme is currently being developed, Richard confirmed.
Chris Tanner, Director of PPM said, “Afiniti is very excited about the launch of the online examinations, transforming our PRINCE2® e-learning course into 100% online, and taking away the need to attend an exam centre. This truly enables delegates to obtain their certification in a flexible and supported way in their own time. The learning and examinations can be fitted around busy working schedules to suit the needs of individuals. Over the last two years of providing PRINCE2 online courses we’ve seen a growing demand for a flexible way to obtain PRINCE2 qualifications. We are pleased to complete this process by offering our customers the option of online remote examinations.”
More about the system
APMG’s Remote Proctor has been developed in partnership with Software Secure which developed the Securexam Remote Proctor (SRP). The SRP addresses every area of exam security by controlling the candidate’s computer settings and authenticating his or her identity while watching and listening to the exam environment. The SRP is a small device which connects to the candidate’s computer via USB. It enables APMG to administer online examinations in our qualifications such as PRINCE2 and ITIL® anytime, and any location.
The remote proctor authenticates the candidate with a fingerprint scanner prior to providing access to the exam, it then restricts the computer’s functions and finally monitors the exam environment through video and audio, capturing all suspicious changes in sound and motion, just as a human proctor would in a traditional exam environment.
How it works
Candidates can request a remotely proctored exam from their Accredited Training Organization, if this is a service they provide. They are required to run a system check* before the remote proctor is sent to them, and all being well, the device is delivered with instructions on how to use it. The candidate then enrolls and authenticates the SRP device through a simple online menu.
When the candidate is ready to take their exam, the SRP enrolls them by recording a video of them providing fingerprint data, and taking their picture. Once enrollment is complete and data authenticated the SRP permits user access to exams.
Exam Administration
The system is monitored 24/7 by teams of trained supervisors employed by Software Secure. If suspicious activity is seen, a video is forwarded to the APMG administration team. Suspicious activity would be identified as any repetitive movement, noise or additional people entering the room where the candidate is taking their exam.
In Addition APMG administrators have access to an administrative site to view and manage candidate enrollment.
Benefits
The SRP Provides freedom to take exams at the time and location convenient for candidates and is a cost-effective way to securely take exams. It gives candidates in remote locations or who have difficulty travelling to exam centers, the same opportunity as those who can take examinations in the traditional way. It also enables candidates to use the technology they are familiar with in an exam situation.
Further information
Afiniti Limited
Afiniti is a Project Management training provider offering PRINCE2 online courses and supporting the APMG Remote Proctor examinations. www.afiniti.co.uk
Tel: 0845 608 0104
Contact: lorna.gibbons@afiniti.co.uk
APMG-International
APMG-International is a global examination institute accredited by The APM Group, OGC's official Accreditor. Our portfolio of qualifications includes PRINCE2®, MSP®, M_o_R® and P3O®. Our Accredited Training Organizations have gone through the most rigorous assessment process in the industry. Our commitment to high standards means that all candidates can be assured the certification they have earned is consistent with every other candidate. www.apmg-international.com
Tel: 01494 452 450
Contact: kate.winter@apmg-international.com
*About the Securexam Remote Proctor System
Software: Patented Securexam lockdown software developed by Software Secure www.softwaresecure.com
Hardware:
Dimensions 6” x 8.5” x 9”
Weight 2 lbs.
Proctoring Features
Fingerprint Detection
Photographic/ID
Video Recording
Audio Recording
Candidates taking an examination using the SRP need the following minimum System Requirements:
- Microsoft Windows XP or Vista operating system
- 512 Megabytes of RAM
- 1 Gigabytes of free hard disk space
- USB 1.1 connectivity (USB 2.0recommended)
- Internet Connection (DSL, Cable or LAN
- Display Resolution 1024x768
- Internet Explorer minimum version 6
A system check is performed by the online examination check in before the SRP device is sent to the candidate. If their system does not meet the requirements, the candidate has the option of upgrading their system or taking their examination at an Open Centre or through one of APMG’s Accredited Training Organizations.
