This is Part III in our blog series on The Latest Test Delivery Trends. To read Part I, click here or Part II, click here.
In the past, the assessment industry has often been seen as slow moving and averse to rapid change. This view is shifting. Our industry has been fast and effective in its response to the significant events of recent years. But what are the trends we see coming forward in the future of testing? What are the expected events we need to be ready for? And how can we be better prepared for the unexpected? Let’s pick up where we left off.
Accessibility and inclusivity in test delivery
Our survey showed that inclusive testing is an area where testing organizations are looking to their provider for guidance and advice. This might include managing a rigorous process to develop tests in different formats, such as Braille, to ensure they are accurate.
For accessibility, test delivery platforms should be compatible with a wide range of assistive technologies such as screen readers and voice recognition software. And important accommodations to offer include extended test times or rest breaks, which should be quick and easy to request while scheduling a test.
It’s also important to have empathetic online proctors who understand the importance of inclusive test delivery and are well-trained in the options for different test accommodations. All supported by continuous improvement, where processes are reviewed and updated based on new technology and evolving best practices.
Read more on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Across the Assessment Lifecycle.
The continuing role of in-person testing
Improvements to in-person testing include a growing list of available accommodations that make testing accessible to more diverse groups:
- Extended time
- Oral tests and exams
- Dedicated proctor
- Separate room
- Specialized monitors
- Screen magnifier or magnifying software
- Braille tests and exams
- Sign language interpreter
- Word-to-word translation dictionary
- A reader
- Someone to write from dictation or copy what has been written
- Paper and pencil tests and exams
Specialized physical equipment in test centers includes:
- Adjustable height tables
- Anti-glare screens
- Keyboard elevation devise
- Alternative keyboard types
- Alternative mouse types
- Noise cancelling headsets
- Tabletop risers
- Seating such as stools or oversized chairs
“Our clients want test centers with a full range of available accommodations and specialized equipment. And they want these to be easy to request or book when a test is scheduled. This reflects the growing demand for individualized testing that suits the needs of the test taker, ensuring everyone has a fair and equal chance of success.” Neal Baer | Senior Director of Operations, PSI
Multi-modal test delivery
Our testing data and research show clearly that multi-modal testing is becoming more popular. The good news is that test modality does not affect test outcomes or test taker experience.
A growing body of research supports a well-developed multi-modal program involving test centers and online proctoring to address different needs:
- Candidates rate both test center and remote proctored delivery as highly favorable.
- Candidate experience ratings are not correlated with test performance.
- Pass rates are comparable for online proctored and onsite proctored administration of the same assessments.
“While testing programs might be nervous about the complexities of transitioning to multi-modal, PSI has supported multiple clients to make the move. We work flexibly and have the processes in place to minimize the impact on your program and your test takers.” Caitlin Wall | Solutions & Implementation Director, PSI
Data analytics and the future of test delivery
Data analytics has an important role to play in analyzing test results and improving test delivery processes. Testing organizations can gather more data than ever before on test taker behavior, performance, and preferences, which will inform future test delivery strategies. Near real-time data forensics makes data-driven decision making even more powerful, with the ability to quickly spot and respond to trends.
Conclusion
The testing industry is changing. And we have more data and insights to inform our response than ever before. At PSI, our approach is to adapt and change while still recognizing the continued importance of tried and tested tools and processes:
- Support the move to online proctoring and multi-modal, while continuing to offer in person testing in secure test centers for organizations that still require it.
- Adopt new technologies that improve test security, without losing our focus on the fundamentals like a lockdown browser and audio and video monitoring.
- Explore the benefits of Artificial Intelligence, while continuing to ensure any use of AI is always backed by human oversight.
PSI has the experience you need in a trusted testing partner, while keeping up with the very latest test delivery trends and developments to keep you fully informed.
Download our guide Trends in Test Delivery to learn more.
