Testing is becoming a greater part of our lives. Currently, teachers use tests to measure the progress of students. Standardized tests such as the SAT, SAT II, and ACT are used for college admissions. Graduate schools use tests such as the GMAT, LSAT, and GRE for graduate admissions. Each state has its own set of standardized tests for measuring student's ability. The United States Congress is currently considering implementing a national standardized test. Testing is a big part of the educational process.
Testing goes beyond education. Many industries and institutions need tests to assess ability. The Department of Motor Vehicles uses a written driver's test. The American Bar Association gives the bar exam to aspiring lawyers. Doctors use tests for periodic assessment of their skills. Employers use personality tests to gauge the effectiveness of potential employees. Testing is a plays a big part in evaluating a person's skills in a capitalistic society.
Current Form of TestingCurrently, most testing involves people using a pencil to record answers on a preprinted paper form or on a blank piece of paper. After time has expired, the proctor collects the forms. The forms are either graded manually, or in the case of standardized test bubble forms, the forms are scanned and graded by computer.
This system of testing has several drawbacks:- The use of paper as a means of recording test information waste a natural resource - trees.
- Storing paper forms is unwieldly and inefficient.
- Manually grading paper forms is time-consuming.
- Allowing students to exchange
paper forms and grade the other's tests (a technique commonly used by
teachers to save time)
- Open to cheating
- Loss of privacy
- Currently under judicial review because of privacy issues
- The system is open to cheating because it is relatively easy for students to look on another's paper form.
- Scanning paper forms is an expensive process.
- Scanning paper forms can be inaccurate.
- Scanning limits the type of tests that can be given. Most of the time, scanning is limited to multiple choice bubble sheets.
These drawbacks have opened the door for a better solution.
Growth of Computer DevicesThe 1990's witnessed the dramatic growth of personal computing devices. Laptops and desktops fell in price and became available to wide range of individuals. Most dramatic in its growth was the class of computers called handhelds. Generally, these small computers, which can fit in the palm of an individual's hand, uses a stylus to allow users to input information as they would with a larger computer; but within the pen and paper context with which the users are familiar. With a low base price ($100), ease of use, and ever improving screen technology, these new devices offer the possibility of rapidly changing current paradigms.
A Better Testing SolutionThe Computerized Testing Platform Software takes advantage of the speed and power of current computers to create a testing system that resolves all of the drawbacks of the current testing system. Its design makes the test-taking experience easier for users. Handhelds, that use the stylus to enter information, is the primary system that the software has been developed; but any computing device can use the Computerized Testing Platform. Patents Pending.