With the T2 Assessment period starting soon, here’s a reminder of simple steps you can take to help students – and staff – have an effective experience with online exams.
Set effective expectations
Exam supervisors follow the protocols for assessment security set by UNE and by Unit Coordinators – knowing what these are and why we set them helps avoid anxiety resulting from misunderstandings and misconceptions. Reminding students to access available information about processes and protocols, such as the Online Exams Privacy notice and the Online Exams information site will help ensure students are informed and know what to expect.
Reinforce support channels
The Exams & eAssessment Team have a comprehensive support model in place in partnership with ProctorU, with extended provisions during assessment periods. We also draw on DigEd’s team-based working strategy to deploy additional staff to provide support to students and staff during assessment periods.
Referring students to the correct support channels is the most effective way to ensure they get the support they need. We have dedicated support contacts in place, and all students should use these channels when they need help. These are communicated regularly to students through the trimester, and reminding students to read communications and follow correct support channels will ensure students get the help they need.
Remember that support doesn’t end when the exam session does – while direct phone contact is one means of support, we also respond to voicemail and SRM messages quickly and have a range of ways we can help students asynchronously.
Refer feedback and concerns
While most students have a positive experience with online exams, sometimes more challenging things occur. However, these can only be effectively addressed and resolved if they are directed to the correct channels. All feedback, concerns and complaints should be directed to the Exams & eAssessment Team in the first instance (via AskUNE for students; olxforstaff email for staff), or students can contact SGU (who will then refer to the Exams & eAssessment Team). Our team has full and immediate access to all QA recordings and logs and can investigate any concerns where session details are provided, with direct escalation pathways in place with ProctorU if needed. We also have the expertise to interpret and explain anything unexpected that students experience. Supporting students and colleagues to direct concerns to the correct channels will ensure all issues can be resolved quickly and easily.