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What Instructions Should Be Included to Secure an Online Exam?

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An online exam is more than just a set of questions. To ensure a fair, transparent, and compliant assessment process, it is essential to provide clear and detailed instructions, available to participants just before starting the exam.

In Nexam, these instructions are linked to each evaluation and must be approved by the participant before accessing the exam. This step helps frame the experience while also protecting the organization in cases of cheating or disputes.

Here are the key elements your instructions should ideally cover:

1. Explain the Structure of the Evaluation

This section should inform the participant about the key parameters of the exam they are about to take. You may include:

  • Total number of questions
  • Overall score and passing grade
  • Format of questions (multiple choice, essay, file upload, etc.)
  • Number of allowed attempts — in Nexam, one attempt is permitted by default; a retake may be granted if needed

It is also important to explain how the timer works in Nexam:

The exam begins when the participant clicks the “Start Evaluation” button. The timer starts immediately and cannot be paused. Five minutes before the end, the timer turns red and blinks to indicate the time is almost up. If the participant does not manually submit the test, it is automatically submitted when time runs out.

Presenting these parameters allows participants to begin the exam with a clear understanding of the framework.

2. Authorized Materials and Expected Behaviors

To ensure fairness and clarity, clearly state what is allowed and what is prohibited, both in terms of materials and participant behavior. Your instructions may include:

Authorized or Prohibited Materials:

  • Open book or closed book exam
  • Handwritten notes permitted or not
  • No electronic devices nearby (phones, tablets, secondary monitors)
  • Clear desk, use of a single computer screen

Example wording:

Any computer equipment other than the one used to take the exam is prohibited. The exam must be completed using a single computer screen.

Expected Behavior in Remote Settings:

Nexam can be used both in-person and remotely. In remote settings, it is crucial to anticipate common questions and provide clear answers in your instructions to avoid confusion and ensure a smooth process.

Reminder: Instructions remain accessible at all times during the exam. Participants should be able to find immediate answers to questions such as:

  • Can I briefly leave the camera’s view?
  • Is a bathroom break allowed? If so, how long and under what conditions?
  • Are head coverings or blurred backgrounds permitted?
  • Do I need to remain silent and avoid reading questions aloud?

Taking the time to clarify these elements enhances transparency and creates a more reassuring environment for all.

3. Technical Information and Handling Issues

A well-designed technical section helps reduce anxiety about technical problems and highlights the platform’s reliability. You can include simple recommendations such as:

  • Use an up-to-date browser, ideally Chrome
  • Restart your computer before the exam
  • Close notifications, applications, and unused tabs to improve performance and avoid behavior that could appear suspicious

Expliquez Ă©galement comment rĂ©agir en cas d’incident :

  • If the screen freezes: wait a few seconds, then click ↻ (refresh) at the top left of the browser
  • If disconnected: the platform automatically saves responses at regular intervals. The participant can resume where they left off as long as time remains

💡 Nexam’s built-in security tools ensure continuity, even in the event of temporary disruptions.

4. Code of Conduct and Integrity Commitment

It is essential to remind participants of the expected behavior during the exam. Present this information positively and clearly, emphasizing the shared value of academic integrity.

You may include:

  • The exam must be taken alone, without external help
  • Unauthorized digital resources are not allowed
  • No other electronic devices should be used
  • Screenshots and sharing of exam content are strictly prohibited
  • The exam must be taken in a quiet environment, on a single screen, without headphones or communication tools

This section can also refer to your institution’s academic integrity policy, or include a declaration of integrity that the participant must approve before starting.

🎓 In cases of cheating, plagiarism, or inappropriate behavior, Nexam enables the institution to prove that the instructions were read and accepted before the exam began. This digital validation provides legal protection in case of investigation or sanctions.

Key Takeaway

Clear and comprehensive instructions benefit more than just participants — they reduce the risk of incidents, strengthen the integrity of the process, and protect the administering organization in case of disputes.

Ready to Secure Your Exams?
Are you implementing remote or hybrid assessments?
Nexam is the SaaS platform for online assessment, designed to support every stage — from test design to proctored exam delivery — with built-in grading tools.
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