Are there rules for taking tests? What is test self-completion? Why do I need a camera for a test with a tutor?

How to get to accurate test results

We use test reviews, teacher evaluations and extra checks to ensure the results we provide are accurate. When preparing for a test our test takers (course participants) are asked to go through online instructions. In those instructions we explain how a test is to be taken and - for online tests with a tutor - how tests can be scheduled. We also ask test-takers to agree to some rules by ticking a box.

Two important rules are explained below.

Rule 1: Test self-completion

In this case, test self-completion means that our participants complete their tests themselves. If a third party helps them take (a part of) the test, the result will be inaccurate and, hence, invalid.

Types of third-party help that are not allowed

Here, third-party help refers to any aspect of the test that the participant is not doing/completing themselves. This includes but is not limited to:

• copying answers from the Internet
• asking friends or relatives for help
• letting someone else take the test on their behalf
• using a search engine, translation engine, AI chatbot or other tool during a test

What happens if a participant uses third-party help?

If we have any reason to believe that third-party help has been used, we are obliged to report it to our client. To avoid situations like these, we ask you to complete the tests yourself to ensure your score is accurate and valid for professional purposes. Ultimately, this saves time and avoids unnecessary problems.

If you comply with the test self-completion standard and complete the tests yourself, we can ensure the quality of testing provided to you.

Rule 2: camera should be turned on during a test with a tutor

Online tests with a tutor are taken in a virtual classroom. A working camera (webcam or phone camera) and microphone are required to take online tests with a tutor. The camera should be turned on (and work correctly). It should not be turned off unless the internet connection is poor and the tutor asks to turn it off.

Spot On Learning will review test results and check if the correct procedures are followed. We do this to make sure the test result is correct, fair and consistent with underlying methodology and applied standards. Online tests with a tutor are recorded. Video and audio recordings will be used to review the test (procedures) and check the quality and consistency of the results. Test results, including video and audio recordings, will often be shared with our client (your employer) and a manning agent (if applicable) and always with yourself, to guarantee transparancy and fairness.

If test recording(s) are not available

If the video and audio recordings of an online test are not available or not good enough the review procedure cannot be followed properly and quality checks cannot be done. The test result is considered to be not valid. The test needs to be retaken. It sometimes happens  that video or audio are not available due to technical or human failures that cannot be influenced by the test taker. We understand that this is unfortunate and requires an extra effort from the test taker. Unfortunately there is no other way to get to a valid and fair test result.