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ONLINE vs IN PERSON TESTS: ADAPTING TO DIFFERENT FORMATS

Akriti Kaul

The testing landscape has evolved. The traditional in person tests now compete with online assessments. Sometimes it's really very difficult to choose which source is the best online or offline. As technology advances, test takers must adapt. Learn how to navigate different formats, their benefits, and drawbacks in this blog. At the end choosing between the both totally depends on your will and availability.


ONLINE vs IN PERSON TESTS: ADAPTING TO DIFFERENT FORMATS
Source: The Indian Express

IN PERSON TESTS

In person tests, also known as paper and pencil tests, have been the traditional norm for decades. These tests offer several advantages and disadvantages: 


PROS


  1. Human interaction:

  2. Face to face interaction with invigilators and peers

  3. Enhanced communication and clarification opportunities 

  4. Better support for test takers with disabilities 

  5. Increased sense of community and accountability 


  1. Secure environment:

  2. Controlled testing environment

  3. Minimizes cheating 

  4. Enhanced credibility of assessments

  5. Increased validity of test results

  6. Reduces risk of academic dishonesty 


  1. Better focus:

  2. Structured testing environment promotes focus 

  3. Reduced distractions and interruptions 

  4. Enhanced performance 

  5. Improved test taker motivation 


  1. Immediate support:

  2. Technical assistance readily available 

  3. Academic support and clarification 

  4. Quick resolutions of issues

  5. Improved overall testing experience 


CONS


  1. Limited accessibility:

  2. Requires physical presence 

  3. Excludes remote or disabled individuals 

  4. Increased stress for test takers with mobility 

  5. Travel requirements time consuming and costly 

 

  1. Scheduling constraints:

  2. Fixed schedules inflexible

  3. Conflicts with other commitments 

  4. Limiter testing windows 

  5. Reduces autonomy 


  1. Logistical challenge: 

  2. Organizing and administering large scale tests

  3. Increased administrative burden

  4. Higher costs

  5. Managing test materials and security 


  1. Test day anxiety:

  2. Stress and anxiety on test day 

  3. Pressure to perform well

  4. Decreased wellbeing

  5. Negative impact on performance


ONLINE TESTS

Online tests have become increasingly popular, offering flexibility and convenience. 


PROS


  1. Flexibility:

  2.  Take tests anywhere,anytime 

  3.   Accommodates different time zones and    schedules

  4.   Reduces travel and expenses 

  5.  Enhanced autonomy and self placer learning

  6.   Improves time management and productivity 


  1. Convenience: 

  2.   Eliminates scheduling conflicts 

  3.   Saves time and effort

  4.   Increases accessibility for remote or disabled  individuals 

  5.   Provides real time feedback and results 


  1. Automated Grading

  2.   Ensures accurate and objective scoring

  3.   Provides timely performance analysis 

  4.   Identifies areas for improvement 

  5.   Supports data driven instruction 


  1. Cost Effectiveness 

  2.    Reduces administrative and logistical costs              

  3.  Minimizes paper waste and environmental impact 

  4. Enhances budget efficiency 

  5. Lowers costs for test development and maintenance 

                    

CONS

Technical issues 

  1. Connectivity problems and poor internet quality 

  2. Device malfunctions and compatibility issues

  3. Potential score inaccuracies 

  4. Test disruption and time loss


Security concerns 

  1. Cheating and academic dishonesty 

  2. Data beaches and unauthorized access 

  3. Increased risk of hacking 

  4. Compromise assessment validity 


Limited interaction 

  1. Reduces human interaction and feedback

  2. Lack of nonverbal cues and emotional intelligence 

  3. Decreased sense of community 

  4. Potential for miscommunication 


Distractions 

  1. Home environment distractions 

  2. Social media and online temptations 

  3. Compromised test validity 

  4. Difficulty maintaining focus 


ADAPTING TO TESTS


ONLINE TESTS 


1)Familiarize yourself with the testing platform and interface and do ensure your device meets system requirements.


2)Check internet connectivity and stability by disabling all the notifications and distractions that are there in your laptops.


3)Create a study schedule or plan in which you will practice sample paper questions and mock tests that are provided by a reliable source.


4) Understand test format, duration, and content, and develop time management strategies.


5)Read the instructions carefully and review or edit the responses before submitting the test paper.


IN PERSON TESTS

1) Familiarize yourself with the testing location and carry all the necessary materials like ID cards, pens etc.


2)Arrive early to get indulged in the environment and manage stress by deep breathing and other relaxation techniques.


3)Manage time allocation for each section and use a process of elimination for multiple choice questions.


4)Bring your own water bottle to stay hydrated and energized and focus on your own performance.


5)Get sufficient sleep before the test to manage testday anxiety.


TIPS FOR SUCCESS 


Academic success 

  1. Set clear goals: Define what you want to achieve and create a plan.

  2. Stay organized: Prioritize tasks, use calendars, and maintain a todo list.

  3. Develop a study routine: Establish a consistent study schedule.