{"id":2961,"date":"2022-06-20T14:38:39","date_gmt":"2022-06-20T18:38:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nexam.io\/?page_id=2961"},"modified":"2025-10-23T15:51:48","modified_gmt":"2025-10-23T19:51:48","slug":"making-the-switch-to-digital-exams","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/nexam.io\/en\/making-the-switch-to-digital-exams\/","title":{"rendered":"Making the Switch to Digital Exams"},"content":{"rendered":"

Several factors must be considered to make a successful transition to online testing to ensure that the evaluation remains relevant to the objectives and context. The evaluations usually done in class can be difficult to transpose from their original form into a digital format that can be taken remotely. It is necessary to distinguish between the function and the approach being pursued and to provide adequate mechanisms to address the notions of plagiarism, feedback, and the management of individual accommodations.<\/span><\/p>\n

It will then be possible to use digital technology to design, manage and grade online assessments. Still, it is important to choose the most appropriate tool to meet your needs!<\/span><\/p>\n

Mastery of the following steps will ensure a successful transition to digital exams whether taken in class or remotely:<\/span><\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Determine the desired objective<\/b><\/li>\n
  2. Choose an exam format that is adapted to the desired goal<\/b><\/li>\n
  3. Provide feedback mechanisms<\/b><\/li>\n
  4. Define the notion of plagiarism and establish It<\/b><\/li>\n
  5. Manage special needs<\/b><\/li>\n
  6. Choose the right digital tool<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    From proof design to copy correction, Nexam offers features that provide flexibility. The transition to online evaluations is possible without compromising quality and integrity.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Step\u00a01: Determine the Evaluation Objectives\u00a0<\/b><\/h2>\n

    Digital technology offers a wide range of possibilities when choosing an exam format. The choice of evaluation must first address the function (what to evaluate) and then determine the approach (how to do it).<\/span><\/p>\n

    There are different purposes for which to evaluate, whether to diagnose, assess learning or certify. Given that the objectives behind the assessment are variable, it is important to clarify them before focusing on the exam format.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Analysis:<\/b> The analysis (or orientation) function assesses the knowledge base in order to develop a picture of the candidate\u2019s and the group\u2019s situation.\u00a0<\/span>For example, a placement test at the beginning of the session or the completion of end-of-chapter quizzes can meet this objective.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Formation:<\/b> The formative (or evaluation) function aims to assess the progress of the candidate and the group to determine what has been learned and what opportunities exist for improvement. This can be a self-assessment, facilitated discussions, or collaborative teamwork that provides feedback. In this context, digital technologies offer a diverse range of options creating a real opportunity for dialogue with the learner.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Certification<\/b>: This function is used to assess mastery of the targeted objectives to certify that the goals have been achieved. A final written exam that counts for 40% of the overall grade is a good example. Membership in a regulated profession would also be an example of a certification assessment.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Once the evaluation function has been determined, the next step is to consider the approach to be used to select an appropriate exam format.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Step\u00a02: Choose an Exam Format Adapted to the Objectives<\/b><\/h2>\n

    When determining how to evaluate learning, three types of approaches can be taken: summative, descriptive, and hermeneutic. (From Ketele, 2010) [1]<\/span><\/p>\n

    Summative:<\/b> This approach consists of creating a portrait of the objectives achieved using scores, ratings and numerical results that can be weighted. On the Nexam platform, evaluations can take different forms:<\/span><\/p>\n