Implementing Computer-Based Testing in Distance Education for Advanced Practice Nurses: Lessons Learned (Teaching WITH Technology) (Report‪)‬

ALL PROGRAMS OF STUDY AT THE FRONTIER NURSING UNIVERSITY (FNU) ARE NOW OFFERED ONLINE FOR A GEOGRAPHICALLY DIVERSE STUDENT BODY THAT INCLUDES STUDENTS IN ALL 50 STATES AND SOME FOREIGN COUNTRIES. This longstanding graduate nursing education program began onsite education in 1939 with a nurse-midwifery curriculum. In 1970, it added the family nurse practitioner program. Providing distance education has led to a number of challenges, including the use of computer-based testing (CBT). This article explores the transition from proctored, paper-and-pencil examinations to computer-based, unproctored, but timed, exams. Background At the inception of distance education at FNU, paper-and-pencil tests were mailed to qualified proctors for student testing. This system required personnel to screen proctors, as well as copy and mail tests worldwide. On average, upon completing an exam and having it mailed back to their course faculty, students waited 7 to 10 days for feedback. Occasionally tests were misdirected or lost in the mail, creating security and other concerns. The system was cumbersome and expensive.