Experiences and trends in e-assessment at the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover

Introduction and Aim: The University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover (TiHo) uses the electronic assessment system Q-Exam® Institution of a private provider (IQuL GmbH, Bergisch Gladbach) for summative as well as formative assessment. The company provides laptops for all students and is responsible for the technical process of each examination. The platform enables a multistage review process. Using the provided system questions are organized in a database, which includes an automated post-analysis of results. A defined blueprint for each written exam guarantees comparable exams over years.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, examinations could be held in a large congress center under special hygiene rules. However, solutions for online open book and closed book examinations were sought due to the pandemic situation.

Methods: In addition to researching best practices and appropriate exam question formats, settings and options within the examination management platform were reviewed. A new exam design was piloted in formative tests.

Results: Settings such as blocks of items, hidden items and fixed sequences were tried out, as well as the use of many but very similar items. Furthermore a guide with suitable examination scenarios and question formats for online open and closed book examinations has been produced.

Conclusions: With the described examination management platform all assessment processes at the TiHo can be organized and the quality of items and examination procedures can be continuously increased and developed. In addition, solutions for open and closed book examinations are feasible.