Plug into the network
With over 20,000 online tests completed in the last year, a network of centres spread across the UK is helping professionals take their exams
Five years ago City & Guilds broke new ground with the first introduction of Global Online Assessment (GOLA). Two million tests later, it’s set to benefit even more learners as City & Guilds is working in partnership with other organisations to deliver its proven e-services to their candidates. During 2005-2006, such a partnership enabled the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) to convert its objectively tested paper-based exams to a computer-based testing using the GOLA system adapted to CII’s business processes.
The result is over 20,000 CII online tests completed since launch nearly one year ago. Employer customers are installing exam centres within their premises and running sessions themselves or candidates are visiting one of a bespoke network of City & Guilds GOLA-enabled centres across the UK to take their exam. These 64 centres in 36 locations include colleges, training providers and other businesses – all key partners in the venture’s success.
Online testing is transforming the learning and testing experience with the flexibility of on-demand exams and reduced administrative burden for tutors. Employers can receive rapid confirmation of a candidate’s abilities at times of skill shortages, when a four to six month delay would make a huge difference to the workforce.
For more information about City & Guilds e-services or joining the network contact Vas Skoulidou at vas.skoulidou@cityandguilds.com
Business requirement
Bob Bullivant
Deputy Director General, Chartered Insurance Institute
The Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) is a chartered professional body that sets the standards of knowledge and behaviour in its industry. Bob Bullivant reveals how the CII went from paper-based to online testing
‘It was clear that computer-based testing was the way forward. The benefit was quite simple for us. It’s a massive step forward in our customer service to both corporate clients and individual candidates,’ says Bullivant.
With the new system, however, it was absolutely crucial that the CII could maintain the standards and integrity of its examinations. ‘We had to be absolutely sure we could incorporate all our quality control procedures into our online testing and the GOLA system has delivered this,’ he says. ‘We also had to be sure the online testing provider was much more than just a supplier. We like the idea of a partnership – as our organisations have similar sorts of ideals and ethical codes we knew we could trust City & Guilds to deliver.’
The feedback following the exams has been encouraging, with candidates responding to on-demand testing and sitting exams when they feel ready. The story does not end here, with online testing now having wider benefits for the CII, according to Bullivant. ‘It has helped us open up new markets,’ he says, ‘there are a number of corporate organisations in the UK we’re speaking to now that we wouldn’t be if it weren’t for our online testing.’
‘The online testing has helped us open up new markets’
Bob Bullivant
Testing venue
Shazad Yousuf
Director of City of London College
Part of the public testing network, City of London College is one of the busiest centres and hosts up to 600 CII tests every month. Dr Shazad Yousuf (below, right) discusses how his college has strengthened its relationship with awarding bodies
‘This was a unique opportunity to get involved in working towards the future. It makes the most of the facilities we have and gives us an opportunity to achieve something that others may not be able to do,’ says Yousuf.
Most days, City of London College tests 20 to 25 CII candidates. ‘We can run exam sessions every weekday, morning and afternoon if the demand is there. It’s very popular because if a candidate can’t make it they can re-book to come on another day,’ says Yousuf. ‘Before, they had to wait months for the next session. This is ideal for professional people.’
To adapt to the client’s needs the centre looked at layout and spacing and added air conditioning and flat screen monitors to offer a comfortable space similar to the candidates’ work environment.
Being in the public testing network brings many benefits for the City of London College. ‘It strengthens our wider relationship with awarding bodies. It also keeps us bang up-to-date with the academic and testing community, as well as all the latest practices. City & Guilds and CII are both known for their quality and rigorous standards. We want to stay at the forefront and being part of the testing network helps us do that.’