Explore testing services from the Office of Digital Learning:
When assessing student learning, instructors play a key role in designing and administering tests with security in mind. You can help ensure the academic integrity of course assessments by choosing in-person proctoring for high-stakes and distance learning exams and by utilizing in-class proctoring solutions such as bubble sheets for paper-based tests, lockdown browsers, polls, and other third-party tools. Assignments and quizzes can be an effective and alternative means of assessing students in online environments. Regardless of the assessment method you choose, be sure the syllabus includes your policies and expectations about plagiarism and the use of artificial intelligence.
High-Stakes Exams
When high-stakes testing is unavoidable, we encourage instructors to utilize in-person proctoring whenever possible. Our NCTA-certified testing facility is located on the main campus and provides secure, proctored testing for high-stakes and distance learning course exams. Services are offered by request. Visit the FSU Testing Center website to learn more.
Distance Learning Exams
For optimal exam security, we encourage in-person testing for distance learning course exams. Our team coordinates with over 700 approved, off-campus proctoring sites to administer exams in online courses. We also provide an online proctoring option through Honorlock that may be a solution when students are unable to access an affordable, testing facility near them.* Visit the FSU Testing Center website to learn more.
Bubble-Sheet Tests
Our optical-mark (Scantron) form scanning services convert paper-based, multiple-choice exams and surveys into reliable, usable data. FSU instructors can order forms, see scores, and view and download test data via our online system. Visit the FSU Testing Center website to learn more. To streamline grading and increase flexibility for instructors using bubble-sheet tests, we are currently piloting Akindi, a web-based scanning tool for online and paper-based tests.
In-Class Polling
In-class polling can serve as an alternative to high-stakes testing and help instructors assess student recall and comprehension in real time. In addition to using an ungraded Canvas quiz to conduct an in-class poll, many of FSU's technology-enhanced classrooms are equipped with iClicker technology. Other tools integrated in Canvas offer polling features, including Zoom and BigBlueButton.
Assignments & Quizzes
Consider using assignments like papers, presentations, portfolios, and multimedia projects to measure student learning. You can also convert a high-stakes test into several low-stakes quizzes. When quizzes count for less of the overall grade, they function as an opportunity for periodic check-ins with students and can lay the foundation for a more robust, authentic assessment of student learning. See the Online Alternatives to In-Person Proctored Exams article to learn more.
*Please note that some students may experience problems with reliable internet connections, equipment, or other issues that can make online testing difficult.