FAS Case Study
The Challenge
Ensuring consistent quality of training and standards of certification is a high national priority and a requirement for every large training company. FAS was considering the step-wise introduction of a computerised assessment solution to simplify the labour intensive processes of
- creating the exam papers
- printing and distributing them under strict access control,
- collecting them for independent marking and
- disseminating the results
whilst maintaining and incorporating the full support of all stake holders.
To manage the growing demand for training, FAS searched for methods by which it could improve assessment processes, whilst being in full control of the certification standards. Succeeding with modern technologies throughout a large, geographically distributed organisation is a challenging task. From the beginning FAS was aiming at a fully web based solution, but in order to succeed FAS required a system which was not only secure and robust, but could easily be accepted by trainees, trainers, and management personnel alike and which could be introduced in a step wise manner.
Simplicity of user interaction is key to ensuring a smooth learning curve for all people involved.
The Solution
Broadcast Learning's totally web-based solution was delivered in different phases to accomodate the change processes within FAS:
In Phase 1 the 'Assessment System' was focused on the development of the student user interface using Broadcast Learning's well established ViewPort Browser product. Based on Broadcast Learning's application server technology it was possible to deliver a lightweight, stand-alone web server which ran off a CD, in 'auto-run' mode not requiring any installation or network setup procedures. Results were delivered in an Excel spreadsheet.
The first student groups took their assessments in the computer training room of their local FAS centre, using Web browser technology while relying only on the local network. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The solution has been accepted with enthusiasm by teachers and students.
Phase 1 has clearly demonstrated, that the use of Web Technology in the class room is practical and this has been fully appreciated by students and trainers alike. It was particularly encouraging to observe the broad acceptance of the medium, even by students where the on-line testing comprised their first experience with a computer.
During this time FAS began to embrace the e-learning paradigm, and started to deliver on-line training courses as part of their continued education offerings.
To prove the feasibility of large scale high stakes on-line assessment, Phase 2 has focused on web delivery. A central computer system provides all the services, with students and trainers alike using a web browser for accessing their respective functionality. The actual tests and the test results are maintained in a central database and are accessible from head office as well as from local training centres.
To compensate for different time delays when connecting from remote parts of the country, and to give head offices a realistic impression of the on-line experience in remote locations lacking high quality connectivity, Broadcast Learning hosted the assessment services from its main server. During this phase the specific HTTP based ViewPort communication architecture has demonstrated its ability to cope with every day networking problems, and proved the suitability of the technology for large scale, international deployment.
In Phase 3 the authoring, project management, and life cycle support functionalities of ViewPort were added to the FAS offering. Broadcast Learnings web-based test bank editor empowers authors not only to create questions and answers, but also allows the creation of ranges of new tests and training exercises.
Authors submit their results to project managers, who then review the material, accumulate the final material and, if necessary, return some parts for further revision. The parts of the material that have already been accepted by the project manager can then no longer be overwritten by the author during the revision process. When the Project manager accepts the final testbank, it is sent to the validator representing the certifying body. With the Validator giving its seal of approval, the test becomes available for on-line examinations during the year of approval.
More Information
About FAS
FAS is Ireland's national training and employment authority, as well as being Ireland's largest 3rd level training provider with many training centres located all over the country.
About Broadcast Learning
Broadcast Learning is a software systems company specialising in e-Assessment and e-Learning solutions. Based on open standards, the Broadcast Learning flagship product ViewPort is one of the most comprehensive and flexible solutions in the market. From corporate training through high-stakes exams for educational institutions and continue professional development, Broadcast Learning is well-positioned to deliver secure, reliable, modular solutions that meet the most demanding assessment and learning requirements. Established in 1997, Broadcast Learning has been providing software and professional services for Global 1000 clients including Sun Microsystems, Riverdeep, Apple Computers and Fidelity Investments. Broadcast Learning is based in Dublin, Ireland. For more information, please visit www.broadcast.ie.
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