There is some risk in transporting paper exams, inasmuch as test centers administer literally thousands of tests each semester. Getting test results back to the student in a timely manner is also difficult, as the exam must be sent to the instructor's home campus to be graded. The process will be converted to an electronic one within the next year, eliminating the need for using interdistrict mail and reducing the risk of loss and the amount of time required for the grading process. Proctored testing can be arranged in just about any place in the world. All necessary forms are provided, and course descriptions provide information on any special testing requirements, such as the use of a VCR or audiotape player.
Proctors nominated by students are subject to approval by the faculty member teaching the course.
The course instructor then deals directly with the proctor, using whatever technologies are at their disposal. Tests may be mailed, faxed, or handled electronically through the Internet, depending upon what is appropriate and available. A second strategy to deal with testing for the truly distant learner centers on Web-based testing. Further, Web-based testing software allows the instructor to receive the exam immediately. This type of Web-based testing reduces the need for transporting exams from one location to another, thus increasing security and ensuring greater likelihood that the student will get the exam when needed.