Digital Exams Project
Blackboard Tests have successfully been in place at the University of Worcester for a number of years and have been used for both formative and summative testing. The online examinations have evolved to offer more inclusive and flexible formats using Blackboard Ultra. This improved interface supports easier marking and more reliable options for allowing extra time for students that require it. The digital exams project has been introduced to standardise the processes of online exam creation and deployment; ensuring an improved student experience.
To address academic integrity concerns, Respondus Lockdown Browser software has been purchased and installed in university computer rooms. The Respondus lockdown software has been successfully integrated with the Blackboard Ultra VLE, and provides a relatively easy to use interface for staff, that will allow an extra level of academic integrity to the testing process. The software is also available for staff via the software centre for testing purposes, so they can experience taking online exams as if they were a student.
If you would like to use Blackboard Tests and the Respondus software, it is vital that you contact TEL@worc.ac.uk in the first instance. One of our Learning Technologists will then book a short appointment with you, to look at your requirements and offer advice regarding the best way forward in terms of building your Blackboard Tests. Support is also available from colleagues in Digital Services who can ensure that PC rooms are ready for use and that students who have reasonable adjustment plans (RAP) have been accommodated. In addition, you are required to log a ticket with Digital Services in good time prior to the exam, stating which rooms you are planning to use. You should also familiarise yourself with the Digital Examination Policy (University login required)
A selection of video resources are available below to assist in the building and deployment of online exams:
- Creating digital Exams using Blackboard Ultra
- Maintaining security when creating exams
- Adding accommodations for students
- Creating a PDF copy of your exam
- What is Lockdown Browser?
- Configuring Lockdown Browser
