By Sheila Roberts
APMG and APM Online Exam Approaches
In the last blog we discussed the common approaches to online exams for different Exam Institutes. Now we will look specifically at the APMG and APM systems. Although similar there are differences.
APMG
All APMG exams are available online with more than one option for online exam invigilation. Proctored / invigilated by the training organisation and proctored / invigilated independently. If the training organisation is proctoring then the exam is booked for the time and date agreed with the client.
The candidates need to register individually. The candidates need to log into the invigilation platform being used, such as Teams, Go To Meeting, Zoom etc as advised by the training organisation. This can be on the same device or a different device (eg mobile phone) to the one on which the exam will be taken. Prior to the start of the exam the training organisation checks photo identification. Once all identities are confirmed the proctor /invigilator (often the trainer) will enable the exam to start, using the APMG software. Candidates take the exam whilst the training organisation watches and ensures exam rules apply.
At the finish time the software automatically stops allowing further answers to be added. A provisional score is given at the end of the exam, which requires validation from APMG, including confirmation exam rules have not been breached.
The independent proctoring/ invigilation option is usually chosen for exams taken individually. The same approach is taken but rather than logging into the proctoring /invigilation platform advised by the training organisation the candidate logs in to the independent proctoring / invigilation platform as advised in e-mail communication directly from APMG regarding the exam. The process is then the same with an independent proctor / invigilator.
APM
The APM PFQ, APM PMQ and APM PPQ (version 2) exams are all available online. The APM uses a live proctoring / invigilation through an independent body. In most respects the system is very similar to that of APMG. A difference is that it needs to have two cameras, one looking from the front and one from behind. The system also blocks other use of the device so no other references or sites can be viewed whilst doing the exam. The system works best with a recent version of google chrome as the browser. You need to book the exam at least 10 working days in advance of the date of the exam and advise of the date and time you wish to book the exam.
CUPE International liaises with APM and the candidate receives confirmation of booking and instructions on how to log in to the exam. For the PMQ and report element of PPQ, the candidate types written answers and so should be able to type sufficiently well to complete in the time available.
Whichever Exam Institute the exam is provided by the common aspects which were covered in the last blog should still be in place. The main thing is to be prepared, know the rules – such as whether you are allowed to go to the bathroom (and how long), and test the system in advance. This will enable you to start your exam calmly and to focus on the questions rather than the technology.
If you would like to find out more about online exams contact the CUPE Team and tap into their experience. Team@cupeinternational.com Tel: +44 (0)1202 555711