Online Assessment Distribution Models for Testing Programs: Lessons Learned from Operational Experience

Abstract

This chapter discusses three distribution models for online assessments and their characteristics. Since 1999, Pearson VUE has been assisting clients in achieving their goals of providing globally distributed computerized assessments for high-stakes certification and licensure purposes. We have identified three major distribution models for the delivery of online assessments: (a) controlled, (b) global, and (c) ubiquitous. Each of these models is appropriate for some types of online assessments but not others. The characteristics of each model interact with the features of the online assessment program in important ways to either advance or impede the goals of the assessment. Operational program experience shows that these strengths and weaknesses must be analyzed and considered with the assessment goals as part of a good decision-making process.