Last year was important for professional testing’s evolution, especially regarding exam security and DEI. Many of you engaged with our articles, webinars, and case studies throughout the year, providing insight into the topics you found most relevant and impactful. As we begin 2024, we invite you to revisit this collection of content—handpicked based on your viewership and feedback—and reflect on important learnings that can be used in 2024 and beyond.
1) Article: Comprehensive Test Security: What It Is and How to Approach It
Security is of utmost importance when it comes to credentialing assessments, especially for those that have high stakes. In this article, we talk about why it is vital to adopt a comprehensive test security approach, which addresses potential security vulnerabilities through effective deterrence, detection, and prevention measures.
Since we wrote this article, assessment security has continued evolving. The increasing sophistication of cheating methods due to technological advancements and global circumstances make it crucial to adopt a comprehensive test security strategy—and to revisit that strategy often. All exam program stakeholders should pay attention to these developments to maintain credential integrity and value.
2) Article: A Closer Look at the Guardian Browser: Benefits, Functions, and Future Plans
This article discusses why we developed a proprietary secure browser for online assessments to improve the test-taker experience and prevent exam misconduct. Remote online testing has become part of the “new normal,” underscoring the importance of using a secure browser for all assessments regardless of their delivery method. In this blog, we explore the benefits of the Guardian Browser and describe how it compares to other secure browsers that facilitate online testing.
Just recently, we reached a major milestone: delivering over one million sessions through the Guardian Browser. Since it was first rolled out, we’ve continued adding new features and enhancements, and we look forward to providing you with future updates.
3) Infographic: How to Mitigate Online Exam Security Threats with Meazure Learning Solutions
Every exam, regardless of format or delivery method, is subject to security risks. Understanding the unique threats associated with online exams and deploying solutions to combat them is the key to more effective security measures. This visual guide is a valuable resource for any program that offers online exams because it describes common cheating tactics as well as the security measures and solutions that are most effective at mitigating them.
This guide remains relevant as we enter 2024 because of its practical strategies in an era of emerging security threats to user data and test content. The measures used to address these security threats are also evolving, with an increased focus on AI, data forensics, and adapted assessment methods to counter increasingly sophisticated cheating methods.
4) Article: 3 Psychometric Methods for Secure Online Test Design and Development
When discussing the topic of exam security, many people immediately think about the measures that can be implemented at the point of delivery. But, exam security really starts with psychometrics during the design and development phases of an assessment. In this article, we talk about what the term “secure test design” means and why it should be important to your organization. Additionally, we explore several psychometric methods that can help ensure secure online test design and development.
While the principles outlined in this article remain as relevant as they were when we published it, the technologies that can be leveraged to apply them have changed quite a bit. For example, the emergence of generative AI models, such as ChatGPT, has led test developers and psychometricians to explore how those tools could be used alongside item writers and subject-matter experts to create a large volume of test content, including complex items, which are more difficult to memorize and steal.
5) Article: How to Improve Test Security During Administration and Delivery
This article is ideal for program owners, proctors, and security professionals. In it, we explore the security risks that credentialing programs may face when administering and delivering exams. We also present some of the most effective measures that can be implemented to reduce these risks.
Are you starting to sense a pattern here? Test security makes yet another appearance on this list. ChatGPT has unleashed new misconduct attempts over the past year, which emphasizes the need for tools like secure browsers along with the strategies outlined in this article.
6) Case Study: How MuleSoft Adopted Online Proctoring and Boosted Accessibility While Hitting Aggressive Growth Targets
This case study highlights MuleSoft’s transition to Meazure Learning’s ProctorU Platform during the COVID-19 pandemic, shifting from in-person testing to remote delivery. The move was necessary because it allowed MuleSoft to not only rapidly scale to meet increased demand but also improve exam security.
Highly relevant for professionals within credentialing organizations, this case study offers valuable insights into how remote proctoring can enhance exam integrity and accessibility. It also serves as a model for IT programs looking to modernize their testing processes while maintaining high security and compliance standards, reducing redundancy, and expanding accessibility.
7) Webinar: Adapting to Change: Accommodations in the New Era of Testing
This webinar explores how accommodation practices are changing to be more inclusive and adaptive, using technology to meet diverse needs. Led by Meazure Learning’s Dr. Ashley Norris and uExamS’s Andy Dua, this webinar explores the challenges, opportunities, and best practices associated with implementing new or different accommodation strategies.
Accommodation practices are expected to continue evolving with:
- Advancements in AI
- Adaptive testing methods
- Regulatory evolution
- A deeper understanding of diverse test-taker requirements
Conclusion
Thanks for taking a look back at the most-viewed content of 2023. At the beginning of every new year, it is important to take a step back and look at what we’ve learned so we can see where we are headed. As our industry continues to evolve, we look forward to providing you with more great resources in 2024.