In recent years, and following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, higher education has witnessed a significant shift towards online learning, and one aspect of this transformation is the increasing prevalence of online exams. In addition to the general difficulties of conducting assessments remotely, universities faced issues related to the lack of preparedness and the need for physical interactions in certain courses such as face-to-face classes and laboratory activities. These challenges called for innovative solutions to ensure the continuity and quality of assessments.
As technology continues to advance and institutions adapt to the changing educational landscape, the Remote Exams Security and Monitoring Framework (RSMF) project is working as a timely and comprehensive solution to the challenges of remote assessment.
The RSMF project is funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union and it seeks to develop a robust evaluation system for remote exams in Higher Education Institutions, aligned with the guidelines and regulations of Quality Assurance Agencies in Europe. The project’s primary focus is to make remote exams economically feasible and practically viable while ensuring the security and integrity of the assessment process.
One of the key components of the project is the use of state-of-the-art video processing algorithms. By employing advanced technologies, the RSMF monitoring platform can monitor and assess remote exams more efficiently. This approach reduces the reliance on human proctors, making the remote exam process more scalable and cost-effective.
A significant benefit of the RSMF monitoring platform is its ability to minimise cheating among students. By relying on technology, the system will provide an objective and comprehensive approach to detecting suspicious behaviours during exams. Any irregularities or suspicious actions by students are recorded and stored, eliminating human error and oversight in judgement.
The RSMF project goes beyond developing a technological solution. It also provides extensive support and resources to universities, including academic staff, students, and administrative staff, as well as comprehensive guidelines for implementing a holistic system that organises secure remote exams.
In its efforts to revolutionise remote exams, the RSMF project produced a detailed accreditation procedure with indicators and quality standards for guaranteeing the security of the remote exams that can be consulted through this webpage. The project partners are currently testing the remote student monitoring platform and organising the pilot workshops, and they are eager to hear comments from others with insight or interest in this area.
The latest updates about the project are also available on the third project newsletter, which is available in English, Polish, Greek and Italian.
More information about RSMF is available on the project website at the following link: https://www.rsmf-project.eu/
