The University has selected Questionmark Perception testing and assessment software to enable it to blend its CAA (Computer Aided Assessment) with its traditional teaching and new e-learning systems. It has purchased an institutional license of the software, the first university in Scotland to take this step.
Questionmark software makes it easy for educators to write, administer and report on assessments, tests, quizzes, exams and surveys using PCs, local area networks, the Internet and intranets. The Perception software will work in conjunction with the University's VLE (virtual learning environment), Blackboard, to deliver assessments and exams to all faculties via a central resource.
Richard Parsons, in the Centre for Learning and Teaching said: "Perception fits neatly into our learning and teaching strategy and we are encouraging its use as both a support to traditional teaching methods and alongside our new e-learning tools. The software offers an incredible depth of features that people don't always realise until they get into it. Despite this depth, it still manages to be flexible and easy to use. In my opinion, other products in this field are some years away from competing with Perception." Dundee University now has the ability to run exams using Perception's secure browser facility, which Richard considers to be an excellent facility. The University will be able to examine up to 400 students in one session using the new technology.