Tips on Building a Successful Testing Program

I just wanted to offer a few helpful hints that will make the testing process easier and better for all of your students (view our complete Testing Liaison Policies and Procedures for more information).

The testing environment should be such that participants can concentrate on their assessments with minimal distractions. Considerations regarding the testing environment include:

• Consistent/adequate lighting levels.
• Temperature at a comfortable level with proper ventilation.
• Space is quiet with minimal distractions.
• Participants should be asked to behave consistently (no eating, getting up and moving about).
• Avoid/delay the test administration when a participant appears hurried, troubled, or ill.

 Responsibilities of the Test Proctor include:

• Establish rapport.
• Limit test anxiety.
• Participant authentication: a picture ID should always be shown and login should be handled quickly and quietly by the proctor.
• Protection of the security of the online testing system. Username AND password should NEVER be revealed.
• Prohibiting the use of all communication devices (photos of test items and text messaging are common problems).
• Computer usage: Monitor whether participants are trying to access the internet or other programs.
• The proctor should be vigilant in their observance of the testing environment: Note passing, hand gestures, etc.
• Reference materials, texts, notes, etc., are not allowed in the testing area unless specifically allowed for in the exam or in a student’s Individualized Education Plan.
• If a candidate is caught cheating during an examination, testing will stop immediately. The candidate will receive a failing result and the incident will be reported to the CareerTech Testing Center (CTTC).
• Students with an IEP may have special accommodations as specified in an IEP, IRP, 504, LEP, and ELL.

Please remember that any assessment is a "point in time" reference of a student's ability and many factors comprise this score. Take a look at our previous posts on Test Interpretation and Test Taking Tips.