Distance Learning
Distance learning, is an aspect of education that looks into the intricacies of pedagogy, technology, and systems of instruction design that aim to deliver education to pupils who are not physically "on place where the classroom is". Rather than going to courses in person, pedagogues and their pupils (students) may converse whenever they please by exchanging written or electronic mail, or any such convenient form of exchange of idea, using technology that enables them to talk and converse with each other in real time. Some distance education courses that require a physically present student to be available on-site for any reason whatsoever, including the taking of examinations and random tests is supposed to be a hybrid or blended course or program.
Distance education has had problems since its beginning with the testing of material. The problem comes when the pupil is needed to finish assignments and tests. Whether random tests, or examinations; Online classes have had problems regarding cheating because of the lack of control. In a class situation an invigilator can look at students and visually keep a level of integrity in accordance with an institution's reputation.
Assignments have adapted by becoming bigger, longer, and more intense so as to test for knowledge by coaxing the student to research the topic and prove they have done the work. Even if the student is referring questions in the textbook or online, there may be an associated time limit or the deal may be worthless in the overall mark that it becomes illogical. Exams and bigger tests may be tougher to moderate.
Used along with invigilators, a pre-arranged supervisor entrusted with over-looking major tests and exams may be used to boost security. Many Midterms and Final exams are conducted at a common site so that professors can supervise directly. Most of these examinations are anyway on the computer in which case the same program blocking tool can be employed. When the Internet became a popular channel for distance learning many websites were created offering safe exam software and other tools to help professors manage their students more efficiently.