This is a question that we as Exam Bureau are confronted with now that the Coronavirus is chaining us to our homes. Examining from home or remotely has the advantage that there is no need for physical contact. Moreover, it should be possible with current techniques. These are good arguments and they are also correct.
This has everything to do with one of the most important core values of these exams: reliability. For VCA and SOG exams we use a secure national itembank. An itembank is a database with in this case VCA and SOG questions. These closed (a.o. multiple choice and matrix) questions and reading exams are very well protected so that the examination offices are able to offer candidates unique and reliable exams on a large scale. This is what exam agencies do in exam locations. From a home situation or a remote examination, it cannot be guaranteed that these questions will not be distributed. Not even if there is internal and external camera surveillance on this form of examination. Dissemination of questions directly affects the reliability of this expensive itembank. That risk must be excluded and therefore it is not possible to examine from home.
For example: oral exams, assessments and to a limited extent and form of practical exams. The assessment of whether certain exams or tests can be taken from a distance has to do with various considerations, such as the importance of a test, reliability, the form of questioning and the risks of fraud.
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If you have any questions about exams, please contact Hélène Munne, account manager of PBNA 0610191940.