Computer Based Test
Computer Based Test
INTRODUCTION
increasingly used in teaching and learning. This has implications on quality of University/
universities/ Polytechnics. Quality is related to standard; therefore the standard of higher education
can only be achieved through evaluation process. The evaluation process is done through
accreditation process which is used to evaluate the process of educational performance in the
Test has to do with merit and worth of the data as applied to a specific use or context.
Teachers and administrators need analysis skills to effectively interpret and make value judgments
about tests results. Tests and testing practices are often based on provision of good quality tests
to test takers in a cost-effective manner, with the help of test sponsor, test developer, and test
The predominant mode of testing students in Nigeria universities and other higher
institutions is the paper-based test. In this mode, students are assessed using paper and pen. Paper-
bringing in unauthorised materials, writing on currency notes and identity cards, spying of other
candidates in examination hall, substitution of answer sheets and change of examination scores or
grades. Others include, impersonation, leakage of questions to students before the examination,
conniving with supervisors and school authorities to cheat, body writing or tattoo in which students
The successes of transition from one test method depend on the extent and ability of testing
professionals to communicate the benefits and limitations of that test method to stakeholders
(Jones, 2000). The use of computers for assessment can provide several benefits for educators and
test-takers. It is on this note that Oladipo (2009) concludes that Computer-Based Test (CBT) is a
system which spurs development in education as well as other sectors of the economy. CBT usually
assist to ensure that candidates identity in the examination hall is efficiently cross-checked.
Computer-based test (CBT) is an efficient way for test sponsors to provide a secure, consistent
environment for certification and licensure as it also enhance students experience (Abubakar &
Adebayo, 2014).
Computer-based testing is the use of computers to administer tests. Computer Based Test
means the candidate sits in front of a computer and the questions are presented on the computer
monitor and the candidate submits the answers through the use of keyboard or mouse. CBT had
advantages over Paper-based test, both for lecturers that give the test and for the students who
participate in the test. CBT allows for more accurate, secure, rapid and more controlled test
administration. Administration of test on the computer helps to minimise almost entirely the use
of paper printing. This could also reduce administration costs as well as environmental impact.
Adewale, Ajadi, and Inegbedion, (2011) carried out a research on perception of learners on
electronic examinations in open and distance learning institutions using National Open University
of Nigeria as a case study. Adewale et. al, (2011) reported that the difference in students
perception is based on the reduction of examination malpractice, wide coverage of the scheme of
work, students academic performance, and inadequate facilities. More so studies like Ricketts and
Wilks (2001) investigated the appropriateness of using CBT system for teaching numeracy and
statistics to the first year Biology students. They discovered that students' performance was poor
when online assessment was used and students had difficulty in interacting with computer screen.
Similarly, Daly and Waldron (2002) used a model for CBT systems to examine the factors that
enable computer science students pass the programming exams despite low level skill in problem
solving abilities. The Study found out that acceptance depended on their performance in their
exams.
The use of computer for test administration in higher education is to change the state of
test administration but the integration has not yet being fully utilized in Nigerian universities. Most
past studies on Computer-Based Test in Nigeria universities e.g (Raji & Jolayemi 2010; Tella &
Bashorun 2011) have considered lecturers attitudes towards computer-based test and effectiveness
of Computer-Based Test on students academic performance. However, only few researchers had
determined lecturers perceptions of CBT (e.g Nurcan 2010, Terzis & Economides 2011, JImoh,
Yussuff, Akanmu, Enikuomehin, & Salman, 2013) but the researchers in their studies did not
create valuable insights into the lecturers perceptions of CBT. Majority of the studies dealt with
students, thus this study investigates lecturers perceptions of computer-based test in Nigerian
universities.
1.3 AIM AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
The aim of this project work is to design and develop a well understandable computer based
test for higher institution that will reduce examination malpractices and student mark-down. The
iii. To reduce examination malpractices during paper based test in Federal Polytechnic as a
case study.
The methodology adopted in the design of this project is object oriented analysis and design
(OOAD). The methodology is preferred to other methodologies for the following reason:
i. Survey method is used to know the existing problem of taking students attendance.
ii. Questionnaire method is used to if the biometric way of capturing students attendance will
outweigh the manual or conventional way by distributing a paper to fill for them in order
i. Visual Studio 2010: this is used to design and develop the computer based test for
students.
ii. Microsoft database 2013: the is used as a back-end that allows student and others data
will be done.
The procedure to take in order to accomplish this task is by writing the appropriate program
with VB.NET 2013 because of its reliability and its flexibility, using MS Access as the
database that will store, delete, search and retrieve students data in the database through
This same computer based test system for the conduction of virtually all test that is to be
taken by students in their lower level of their career also there was a speculation that every course
in the higher institutions that has more than 500 students must be taken to computer based test
Since test constitute an important part in the running of a particular learning institution and
also as it has been established in the above paragraph that there are very large number of students
that will be involved in the usage of this system, then a very good system that possesses all the
characteristics as mentioned in the objectives of study is highly needed. The contribution of this
proposed system will have a very good impact in the conduction of test in the
University/Polytechnic.
This project work covers the computer based test control that will eradicate the anomalies
in manual method of writing test. This also allows modification of questions, storing of questions
and deletion of questions from the database only by the administrator. Registration of students also
capture in order to avoid unauthorized person from accessing it, by doing so, only the recognized
or valid students of the case study Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti will do the computer based
test. Questions were also monitored with time so that individual will know the exact time to finish.
This project will allow lecturers to perform test for students using computer based method
that will reduce the amount of examination malpractices such as: conniving with some lecturers to
upgrade scores, exchanging of examination papers during test, writing on some private parts of the
body most especially girls, and other forms of examination malpractices. This also inspires
students who are computer illiterate or cyber-phobia to know more about computer system.
File Transfer: Any kind of computer file can be sent via the Internet from one Internet user to
another. Table of accounts on spreadsheets, design by a graphic artist, music sound files etc., can
Web Site: A website is a collection of many interconnected web pages organized by a specific
college, organization company etc., containing web pages (good and commodities) on the Internet.
Examination: is a set of questions or exercises evaluating skill or knowledge; "when the exam
LITERATURE REVIEW
According to Fluck, Pullen & Harper (2009) educators must consider which assessment
techniques permit students to utilize the affordances of new technology. The authors conducted
an eExamination for the students of 4-year Bachelor of Education Program at the University of
Tasmania. Students achievement was assessed through two equally weighted activities: first was
a home assignment in which students explored learning content through the use of ICT and the
second activity was a 2 hour test comprised of 14 questions based on all the material in the unit.
At the end of the test, a single page survey with five questions was offered to students. Survey
indicated that 38% of the survey respondents had previously taken a CB exam, 78% had used the
practice CD before eExamination and 71% had found it very or moderately useful. The valid
responses indicated that 94.5% preferred CBT. The prior exposure to CBT was a highly significant
Karadeniz (2009) studied the impact of paper based, web based and mobile based
Significant differences were found between the scores achieved by the students in second week,
but not in first week. It was perceived by the authors that students had positive attitude towards
web based and mobile based assessment due to ease of use, comprehensive and instant feedback.
Moreover, most favoured tests were web based and the least favoured were paper based. The
(2006) examined medical students attitude about CB VS PB testing. Through an online survey
213 (53.5%) final-year MBBS students were tested out of which 91 (79.8%) preferred CBT, 11
(9.6%) preferred paper-and-pencil (PNP) format and 12 (10.5%) were un-sure. Authors further
explained that 42 indicated that 42 liked CBT because of good quality of images and independent
of assigned seating positions; 22 liked because they could proceed at their own pace; one stated
that CBT examinations was fun; 4 enjoyed the convenience of CBT and 6 cited equality as the
Bodmann and Robinson (2004) conducted an experimental study to compare speed and
participated in the studies which were already familiar with computer-based tests. Both CBTs and
PPTs contained 30 MCQs items with 35 minute of time limit. Approximately half class (28
students) took the first test on the computer and rest preferred first test on paper. Procedures shifted
for the second tests, with the first group receive PPTs and second group CBTs with a gape of two
weeks. It was concluded that undergraduates completed the CBT faster than PBT with no
difference in scores.
Koppel and Hollister conducted a study to examine the impact on student performance of
research tool were used in the study to collect and interpret results i.e., questionnaires completed
by students to express their CBA experiences; faculty interviews who had administered computer-
based test to determine students perceptions of using this medium of testing and analysis of
students test scores in both conventional paper-based tests (PBT) and CBA.
Total 133 students out of which 91 have no prior experience of CBA and remaining 42 had
experienced the same in their previous courses. The Excel CBA was comprised of 25 items was
constructed. Students scores on CBA were automatically recorded which included overall scores
achieved. Grades on CBA were based on students ability to complete a specific skill-based
operation in the application of MS Excel. CBA was administered in one class period, at the end of
the exam students reviewed their results. PBT was administered in the next class period. The PBT
were examined manually by viewing the printout and actual Excel file containing the completed
examinations. Results of PBT were recorded physically by noting the required information in an
Excel sheet. Grades on the PBT were based on the final product submitted by each student as
opposed to how each task was performed. On the question of ease of use, majority of the students
(59%) found the software to be easy, 29% found it to be moderate and 12% the software to be
somewhat difficult to use. Interpreting the range of skills, 76% responded that CBA was more
effective test. Evaluating the difficult of question paper 65% responded that question paper were
moderated, 34% of the students felt the automatic grading system was fair while 39% didnt find
the grading fair. Only 19% felt that CBA negatively impacted their performance. Only 14%
students found CBA easier while 49% found it difficult or more difficult. Total 58% preferred
CBA and 42% preferred PBT. Faculty perceived to be more positive towards CBA in terms of less
time writing exams, reduce grading time, simple method of record keeping of grades and improved
Calarina and Wallace (2002) investigated to confirm several key factors in computer-based
versus paper-based assessment. Factors of the study were content familiarity, computer familiarity,
competitiveness, and gender. The study used a post-test only designed with one factor, test mode
(Computer-based and paper-based). Students score on 100-item multiple choice items and
students self-report on a distance learning survey were treated as dependent variables. Four
sections of Computer Fundamental Course consisting of 105 students were selected as sample of
the investigations. Results showed that computer-based test delivery impacted positively on
students scores as compared to paper-based test. From the abstract of the study, it was found that
ANOVA of test data showed that the computer-based test group outperformed the paper-based test
group. Gender, competiveness, and computer familiarity were not related to this performance
Computer Assisted Learning (CAL) has been a term of increasing significance during the
last decade and can also be referred to as Computer Based Instruction (CBI), Computer Aided
Learning (CAL), or Computer Aided Instruction (CAI) (Bachman, 2008). For the purpose of this
review, we can simply define CAL as the learning procedures and environments facilitated through
computers. However, the keyword for understanding Computer Assisted Learning is interaction.
Computers can facilitate interaction during the learning process on multiple levels. On one level
we have interaction of the staff/user with the content and the learning material. On another level,
computers can host interaction of the staff/user with the tutor, peer interaction or interaction
between members of whole virtual learning communities. The concept of interaction with
content was first introduced in applications as early as the 1980s and is probably the best studied
between humans, however, has only emerged during the last decade, as explosive technological
Learning, which presents special methodological considerations and requires separate study
(Mattheos , 2000).
The present review will be focused on Computer Assisted Learning applications where
interaction is limited between the user and the content, as the educational experience with these
applications is wider, and their future prospects are also remarkable. These Computer Assisted
Learning applications were initially designed for local use as part of the traditional curriculum.
However as both technology and educational experience mature, the real potential of these
programs unfolds in distance learning. It is important to remark that although interactive Computer
Assisted Learning programs are accessed from different places, they are directed by the same
through a CDROM in the university ICT lab supplementing the local curriculum, and the same
application can be available on the web as part of a distance learning course. In both cases, the
learning principles and methodological implications are identical, as long as the interaction
remains between the user and the content. Therefore study of this kind of application even if in a
local environment, is directly applicable to the use of Computer Assisted Learning in distance
The present study aims to summarize the current experience in the field of Computer
Assisted Learning applications in computer hardware maintenance and trouble shooting. The
review is particularly focused on educational value of Computer Assisted Learning, as well as its
attitude towards Computer Assisted Learning among the staff, staff and professionals. Finally,
E-learning services have evolved since computers were first used in education. There is a trend to
move towards blended learning services, where computer-based activities are integrated with
Bates and Poole (2003) and the OECD (2005) suggest that different types or forms of e-
learning can be considered as a continuum, from no e-learning, i.e. no use of computers and/or the
Internet for teaching and learning, through classroom aids, such as making classroom lecture
PowerPoint slides available to staff through a course web site or learning management system, to
laptop programs, where staff are required to bring laptops to class and use them as part of a face-
to-face class, to hybrid learning, where classroom time is reduced but not eliminated, with more
time devoted to online learning, through to fully online learning, which is a form of distance
education. This classification is somewhat similar to that of the Sloan Commission reports on the
status of e-learning, which refer to web enhanced, web supplemented and web dependent to reflect
increasing intensity of technology use. In the Bates and Poole continuum, 'blended learning' can
cover classroom aids, laptops and hybrid learning, while 'distributed learning' can incorporate
It can be seen then that e-learning can describe a wide range of applications, and it is often
by no means clear even in peer reviewed research publications which form of e-learning is being
discussed. However, Bates and Poole argue that when instructors say they are using e-learning,
this most often refers to the use of technology as classroom aids, although over time, there has
as a key component of the educational environment. While this can refer to the use of computers
in a classroom, the term more broadly refers to a structured environment in which computers are
used for teaching purposes. The concept is generally seen as being distinct from the use of
computers in ways where learning is at least a peripheral element of the experience (e.g. computer
computer or handheld device. CBTs typically present content in a linear fashion, much like reading
an online book or manual. For this reason they are often used to teach static processes, such as
using software or completing mathematical equations. The term Computer-Based Training is often
used interchangeably with Web-based training (WBT) with the primary difference being the
delivery method. Where CBTs are typically delivered via CD-ROM, WBTs are delivered via the
Internet using a web browser. Assessing learning in a CBT usually comes in the form of multiple
choice questions, or other assessments that can be easily scored by a computer such as drag-and-
drop, radial button, simulation or other interactive means. Assessments are easily scored and
recorded via online software, providing immediate end-user feedback and completion status. Users
CBTs provide learning stimulus beyond traditional learning methodology from textbook,
manual, or classroom-based instruction. For example, CBTs offer user friendly solutions for
reading printing manuals, staff are able to acquire knowledge and skills through methods that are
much more conducive to individual learning preferences. For example, CBTs offer visual learning
benefits through animation or video, not typically offered by any other means.
CBTs can be a good alternative to printed learning materials since rich media, including
videos or animations, can easily be embedded to enhance the learning. Another advantage to CBTs
are that they can be easily distributed to a wide audience at a relatively low cost once the initial
development is completed.
However, CBTs pose some learning challenges as well. Typically the creation of effective
CBTs requires enormous resources. The software for developing CBTs (such as Flash or Adobe
Director) is often more complex than a subject matter expert or teacher is able to use. In addition,
the lack of human interaction can limit both the type of content that can be presented as well as
the type of assessment that can be performed. Many learning organizations are beginning to use
smaller CBT/WBT activities as part of a broader online learning program which may include
Technology enhanced learning (TEL) has the goal to provide socio-technical innovations
(also improving efficiency and cost effectiveness) for e-learning practices, regarding individuals
and organizations, independent of time, place and pace. The field of TEL therefore applies to the
Along with the terms learning technology, instructional technology, and Educational
Technology, the term is generally used to refer to the use of technology in learning in a much
broader sense than the computer-based training or Computer Aided Instruction of the 1980s. It is
also broader than the terms Online Learning or Online Education which generally refer to purely
web-based learning. In cases where mobile technologies are used, the term M-learning has become
more common. E-learning, however, also has implications beyond just the technology and refers
used in conjunction with face-to-face teaching, in which case the term Blended learning is
commonly used. E-Learning pioneer Bernard Luskin argues that the "E" must be understood to
have broad meaning if e-Learning is to be effective. Luskin says that the "e" should be interpreted
allows for 21st century applications and brings learning and media psychology into the equation.
(MIS) to create a Managed Learning Environment) in which all aspects of a course are handled
through a consistent user interface standard throughout the institution. A growing number of
physical universities, as well as newer online-only colleges, have begun to offer a select set of
academic degree and certificate programs via the Internet at a wide range of levels and in a wide
range of disciplines. While some programs require staff to attend some campus classes or
orientations, many are delivered completely online. In addition, several universities offer online
staff support services, such as online advising and registration, e-counseling, online textbook
E-Learning can also refer to educational web sites such as those offering learning scenarios,
worksheets and interactive exercises for children. The term is also used extensively in the business
When a case is presented in a book, all the learning material is presented linearly,
frequently together with a subsequent solution to the case. Often the book begins from an already
given topic. This principle is also frequently used in lectures: usually the staff gets the solution
Traditional book and lecture teaching represents a one-way communication with the staff.
Neither of these resources often stimulates the staff. This implies that there is limited possibility
for interaction with the resources. CAL, on the other hand, stimulates the staff to interactive
learning by providing the possibility for interaction with the media, at a personally chosen level.
For instance, many of the programs often demand that the staff ask for relevant information about
the current situation in order to be able to continue. CAL also provides the staff with the
opportunity to go through the material at his own pace and repeat chosen parts, without involving
a teacher or other staff. CAL is especially valuable when the program contains possibilities of
Staff want to achieve as good assessments and grades as possible. Because of this, staff are
usually strategic and use different kinds of learning approaches to different courses, often in
sophisticated ways. One important factor is the design of the exam. Depending on the examination
form, staff employ different learning styles (Hendricson, 2007). Additionally, when the time for
examination is approaching, staff often pass from a deeper understanding of the content to a pure
memorizing mode (Fairclough, 2005). Staff learning strategies are often content-dependent
(Laurillard, 2009). There is sometimes a strong correlation between the quantity of necessary
activity and the quality of learning. The more that is demanded from staff, the more likely they
will adapt a superficial learning style (Chambers, 2002). In a study done on Nordic dental faculties,
many staff (54%77%) thought they had little time available for studying. The staff also
considered that the teachers had deficient teaching skills. Many staff felt that teaching was a second
priority for the teachers (Widstrom, 2000). One reason for negative staff attitudes is that sometimes
the teaching staff in universities have had limited pedagogic education. Staff usually wish for more
factual and concrete information, a more structured curriculum and organized conditions
(Hendricson, 2007). In other words, things should not be left to chance. One of the most popular
learning resources is teacher handouts (Hendricson, 2007). Even small changes in how the
information is presented can lead to major alterations in learning outcomes (Maclachan, 2006).
Research results show that if an image is initially blurry, and then becomes clear, it is
remembered much better than if it is presented clearly for the same amount of time. This could
mean that if an image were to be drawn instead of being instantly presented, learners might
remember it better. It has also been shown that learners have an ability to remember animations
well (Maclachan, 2006). Interactive multimedia software engages staff in decision-making and
multi-sensory learning. When all senses are stimulated, learning will be most effective and the
It has even been shown that if the computer grants the staff an award (e.g. in form of an
animated writing of his name), the staff will try to perform better (Maclachan, 2006).
A computer can, in a very realistic way, simulate real problems. To be able to go farther in
a simulation program, the staff has to ask for relevant information about the case. This demands
that the staff be attentive and concentrate, which provides conditions for good learning
(Maclachan, 2006). Staff willingly use sophisticated instruments for learning (Plasschaert, 2005).
In addition, if they participate in the development of the software, they will become more
motivated to use it. Software that is developed by the faculty contains structured, actual and
concrete information and is more likely to contain exam-relevant material. Since staff adapt a
learning style which favours the exam results when practicing cases, they will be more motivated
to use this software. The software is designed in a way that forces the staff to think and concentrate
It has been established that physical achieves are not always helpful a much better
This implies the creation of database management system (DBMS) which ensure that computer
records are kept up to date and made available on demand to those who need them for planning
and operational purpose. The level of success achieved in caring out this research work is owed
procedure that should be followed in caring out a thorough research work .an adequately
suitable methodology would ensure a very detail research work and ensure a higher degree of
In other to attain quiet a reasonable acceptance of the research work we made use of the
It involves the application of a sequence of analysis, documentation and design tasks concern
with the analysis of the current system logical data design logical process design, etc. The
research methodology used helps us to ensure that a thorough study of the present system is
effectively carried out thus helping the project research team to completely understand the
modus operandi of the present system so as to know how to the new system should be structured
and the functionalities needed in it to address the seemingly existing problems discovered. This
helps to know if there should be total overhauling of the existing system or if only modification
should be made. From the research carried out the existing system is a manual system which
gives the option of overhauling the manual system the SSADM is adopted to create entirely a
new system.
must integrate with a development strategy that include the process, methods and tools layer
and generic phases. This strategy is often referred to a process model or a software developing
paradigm.
i. Requirement Definition
iii. Implementation
relative to the subject. This process of information gathering was achieved through so many
sources including:
Screen
Main Menu
Administrator Candidate
View Profile
Manage Account
View Result
Log Out
Log Out
Exit Program
3.5 USER REQUIREMENTS DEFINITION:
i. The user requirement for this system is to make the system fast, flexible, less prone to
ii. Time can be saved by scheduling the exams, if it is available a question bank to store
iii. A system can be given a mark by checking the students answers, and give the result as
iv. A facility to generate a result chart as pre required without manual interface.
v. The system should have records of student that can be access to the system which can be
vi. The system should be more secure for management user records and more reliable to
This system must be designed as user required. So, the complete requirement must be found:
i. Quick scheduling: The system helps the faculty member to generate an automatic
exam instead of using papers. Which save a time for writing, checking and for input
marks. Also, student can see the test when he login as an individual to the system.
ii. Immediate results and solutions: When the exams taker finishes his exam, the system
checks her answers and compared with the correct answer. And the system saves the
correct answers and calculates the mark of correct answers. Then give the total mark.
iii. Easy to store and retrieve information: Rather to save the information on a papers or
in separate sheets. There are a data base management to store and retrieve the
information needed by the administrator or Faculty member or student according a
This section gives a functional requirement that applicable to the Computer Based Test
system.
i. Candidate module.
The candidate will get result immediately after the completion of the test.
ii. Examiner module: The database is prepared & loaded into the software. Selection for
test can be done language wise by the examiner. The results will be displayed
iii. Administrator module: The administrator collects all the results after successful
completion of the test and sends to the headquarter as and when required.
3.8 THE FEATURES THAT ARE AVAILABLE TO THE ADMINISTRATOR ARE:
account.
iv. Can view and modify its profile but can modify it to some limited range.
Performance Requirements
Some Performance requirements identified is listed below:
i. The database shall be able to accommodate a minimum of 10,000 records of students.
iii. There are no other specific performance requirements that will affect development.
SYSTEM INTERFACES:
This section describes how the software interfaces with other software products or users for input
or output.
USER INTERFACE
Application will be accessed through a Browser Interface. The interface would be viewed best
using 1024 x 768 and 800 x 600 pixels resolution setting. The software would be fully
compatible with system window 7 and above. No user would be able to access any part of the
HARDWARE INTERFACES
i. Client side:
ii. Operating System: Windows XP or above
iii. Processor: Pentium III or 2.0 GHz or higher. RAM: 256 Mb or more
SOFTWARE INTERFACES
Client Side: .HTML, Web Browser, Windows XP/2000/Vista
Server: .AppServer