ONLINE EXAMINATION MANAGEMENT

SYSTEM

BY

TIBI JESSY LUMAYA. ID NO: 643442

INSTRUCTOR: JAPETH MUSRSI PHD.

Project Report Submitted to the School of Science and

Technology in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirement for
the Bachelors of Science in Applied Technology.
 Online Examination System
Chapter 1: Introduction

1.1) Background

Online learning or E-learning is fast gaining ground as an accepted and used learning paradigm.
More and more school institutions are implementing web sites providing functionality for
performing E-learning and examinations over the web. It is reasonable to say that the process of
learning on the web is becoming commonplace.
The major objective of this project is to develop an online examination system for students
whereby exams/tests can be created and conducted online so as to ensure that E-learning students
need not travel for long distances so as to sit for their examinations. While ICTs are primarily
used in blended learning and long-distance education to support teaching and learning, it is the
utilization of the electronic medium to conduct very significant summative assessments has
attracted interest from a variety of stakeholders worldwide. In order to address the ubiquitous
academic fraud, the United States (US) introduced the Higher Education Opportunity Act, 2008,
which requires institutions to have safeguards in place to verify students whose assessments are
made possible by electronic methods

1.2) Problem Statement

As much as most local institutions of learning have embraced E-learning to raise the bar and so
as to cope with the ever-growing number of learners (students) very few institutions have
adopted an online examination system, in fact little has been done in development of online
systems.
A lot of resources (time and money) are wasted since students have to move from place to place
to do exams. Time and man power are also wasted as setting and marking of the exams is done
manually.
The purpose of on-line exam system is to take online test in an efficient manner and no time
wasting for checking the paper. The main objective of on-line test simulator is to efficiently
evaluate the candidate thoroughly through a fully automated system that not only saves lot of
time but also gives fast results.
For students they give papers according to their convenience and time and there is no need of
using extra thing like paper, pen etc.

1.3) Objectives

a) General Objective

The general objective of Online Examination System is to create a platform for online
administration, and evaluation of exams.

b) Specific Objectives

i) Enables the Admin to create subjects to be undertaken by students.

ii) Enables the Admin to create Test conductors.
iii) Enables the Admin to create students.
iv) Enables the Test conductors to create subjects to be undertaken by students.
v) Enables the Admin to create tests to be undertaken by students.
vi) Enables the Test conductors to create tests to be undertaken by students.
vii) Enables the Admin to create Questions to be undertaken by students.
viii) Enables the Test conductors to create Questions to be undertaken by
students.
ix) Enables the Admin to manage exam results.
x) Enables the Test conductor to manage exam results.
xi) Ensures timing of student tests.
xii) Ensures exams are marked correctly.
 xiii) Enables students to check their marks online.

1.3) Project Justification

In comparison to the current educational system, the effect of justification design on this system
will help institutions' administrative systems become more successful.

This study will serve as a valuable resource for all computer students who might conduct
additional research on this subject. Through efficient operation and increased competency, it will
provide superior service.

The development of the system is driven by the following advantages: -

i. Convenience to the Students and Test conductors: -

The students need not move from place to place to do exams and check their
results, moreover the Test conductors’ job is minimized as they don’t need to do
the marking and tallying of the marks.

ii. Less capital is used as the cost of printing Examinational papers is eliminated.

Chapter 2:

2.1 Literature Review

E-learning and Online Examination systems applications support the interaction between
different parties participating in the learning platform via the network, as well as the
management of the data involved in the process. An online exam system is an innovative
approach that facilitates the examination process by providing the facility to conduct exams
remotely. This literature review aims to provide insights into the current state of online exam
systems, their benefits, challenges, and future prospects. Online exam systems offer several
advantages over traditional examination methods. First, they provide greater flexibility and
convenience for both students and teachers. Students can take exams at their own pace and
convenience, while teachers can easily monitor and grade exams from anywhere. Second, online
exams reduce the administrative burden on educational institutions by eliminating the need for
physical exam papers, reducing the workload on examiners and simplifying the grading process.
Third, online exams provide immediate feedback to students, allowing them to identify areas of
weakness and focus on improving their performance. Online exam systems are likely to continue
to grow in popularity and sophistication in the coming years, as educational institutions seek to
improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their examination processes. New technologies such
as artificial intelligence and machine learning may be incorporated into online exam systems to
provide even greater insights into student performance and personalized learning opportunities.
However, it is important to balance the benefits of technology with the need to maintain
academic integrity and ensure fair and equitable assessment practices.

Chapter 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction

The research design or the study is a mixed-methods approach that includes both quantitative and
qualitative data collection methods. The population for the study will be students and educators
from different educational institutions. The data collection methods will include surveys,
interviews, and observation. The data analysis techniques will include descriptive statistics and
thematic analysis. The independent variable is the Online Exam System, and the dependent
variables are the benefits, challenges, effectiveness, and comparison of the Online Exam System
with traditional exam methods.

3.2 Global Examination System Status

The status of examination systems varies across the world, depending on the country and the
level of education. Some countries have well-established and reliable examination systems,
while others face significant challenges.
United States: The United States has a decentralized education system, with each state
responsible for developing its own exam systems. However, the federal government provides
guidance and funding to support the development and implementation of these systems. There
are several standardized tests used in the US, including the SAT and ACT for college admission,
and state-specific exams for K-12 education. United Kingdom: In the United Kingdom, the
National Curriculum sets out the content and assessment requirements for primary and secondary
education. Students are assessed through exams and coursework, with exams administered by
independent exam boards. The most well-known exam board is the Oxford, Cambridge and RSA
Examinations (OCR).China: China has a centralized education system, with exams administered
by the government. The most important exam is the National College Entrance Examination
(NCEE), also known as the Gaokao, which is taken by high school students and determines
admission to universities. India: India has a complex education system, with exams administered
by both government bodies and private organizations. The most important exam is the Central
Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) for secondary education, and the Joint Entrance
Examination (JEE) for admission to engineering colleges. Kenya: In Kenya, the Kenya National
Examinations Council (KNEC) is responsible for administering exams for primary and
secondary education. The most important exam is the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education
(KCSE), which is used for university admission.

Overall, examination systems play a critical role in education, and their effectiveness depends on
several factors, including the quality of the exams, the fairness of the assessment, and the
reliability of the results. Governments and education stakeholders need to work together to
ensure that examination systems are well-designed, well-implemented, and serve the best
interests of students.

3.1 Data Collection Methods

The survey will be administered to a sample of students and educators to collect data on their
experience with the Online Exam System. The interview will be conducted with a smaller
sample of participants to gain a deeper understanding of their views on the system. Observation
will be done during the implementation of the system to monitor the process.

CHAPTER 4
4.1 FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS
4.1.1 REGISTRATION
The system user i.e. students and first of all must create an account to the site. The registration
form is coded using php, html and validated using php and JavaScript. The user will be needed to
provide his/her student user name which will be used as the core identification to the site. The
user too will be needed to choose his/her own password which be enabling him/her to log into
the site. The user too should provide the name of his/her location/city, email address and
contacts. After registration, the user will be required to login to the system. Thus, the user will
now be able to log into the site since his/her account has been activated.
The Test conductor however can only be created by the administrator to ensure that students or
other guests can’t add themselves unnecessarily.

4.1.2 LOGIN
Users will be required to login by providing their user names and their passwords too. If the user
names correspond to the correct password provided by the user, the user will be authenticated to
the main site from where he can view different things according to the type of user they are.

4.1.3 ADMINISTRATOR FUNTIONALITIES

1. The administrator has choice to delete users from the system depending on their
justification for instance if a user is misusing the site.
4.2 NON-FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS

In developing this system, iterative approach was used where the core functions were first
included then tested the system to see its functionality. While designing this system, the
following parameters where taken into consideration:
1) Performance.
All details are stored in a MySQL database which is fast, efficient and perfect. The site on
the front end runs on HTML and CSS while on the back end, it is supported by JavaScript,
MySQL database and php. Thus, the user has been limited to the interface only, but not how
the system works at the background.
2) Availability.
 The system has not been created in a static manner but it is dynamic. It therefore provides an
easy extensibility in the future according to changing technologies.
3) Security.
Security has been enhanced by providing a different platform for administrators and
users/applicants. Admin has been granted many privileges than a normal user. A student can
only take a test and view results but can’t delete them. An admin on the other hand adds
users, tests and views users, added tests and can deletes users form the site and delete tests.
These are operations which have been limited to the admin only.
4) Maintainability.
The system has been designed in a way that the components can be changed. This makes it
easy to maintain and use.
5) Accessibility and Usage.
For any site to be good, it has to be user friendly. The site is made from an interface that is
friendly to the user, which abstracts most of the background operations and only provides the
important operations to the user. Too, any over 18 years old person can use the site freely
because it provides easy terms and navigation. The user is directed to what he/she needs
easily without searching for it and too, the menus are optimized to meet users’ needs.
4.3 REQUIREMENTS ANALYSIS
Software Process Model
To solve actual problems in an industry, software developer or a team of developers must
incorporate a development strategy that encompasses the process, methods and tools layers and
generic phases. This strategy is often referred to as process model or a software developing
paradigm. A process model for software developing is chosen based on the nature of project and
application, the methods and tools to be used, and the controls and deliverables that are required.
All software development can be characterized as a problem solving loop in which four distinct
stages are encountered: Status quo, Problem definition, technical development and solution
integration. Regardless of the process model that is chosen for a software project all of the stages
coexist simultaneously at some level of detail.
The choice of the methodology to use was SSADM methodology. SSADM revolves around the
use of three key techniques namely Logical Data Modeling, Data Flow Modeling, Entity/Event
Modeling and the application of the Systems Development Life Cycle.
4.3.1 Justification For Choice Of SSADM as the Methodology.

1) The Objectives in e-exam are realistic.

2) SSADM highly Emphasizes on Documentation which is Crucial in this project.
3) Communication within the System is effective and reliable.
4) SSADM is a structured methodology appropriate for the analysis and design of systems
which exist in a well-structured environment.
4.3.2 Steps In SSADM
Requirements elicitation.
Here the requirements for all system elements are determined. It incorporates comprehensive
requirements gathering for the system.

System analysis.
The analysis phase will be used to determine the system specifications. It aids in the proper
understanding of the nature of the system to be built after clear understanding of the information
domain. The deliverables at the end of requirement analysis will be a detailed document of the
system requirements.
System design.
The design phase translates requirements into a design that can be assessed for quality before
code generation begins. In this phase I will us the Gliffy tool to come up with use case diagrams
or Data Flow Diagrams. These show the different users of the system and how they use the
system. I will also develop design diagram such as sequence diagrams to show user interaction
with the system. The deliverables at the design phase will be system design models.
Coding.
The coding phase will come up with the code for the system as well as interconnect the different
components of the vehicle, garage and car wash advertisement services.
Testing.
In this stage the system will be tested using test data such as entering data into the system and
checking whether it will perform the expected services.
A working system will be released at the end of the implementation period.
4.4 REQUIREMENTS ELICITATION
It includes the techniques to be used by systems analysts to identify or extract system problems
and solution requirements from the user community and other relevant sources.

Technique used: -

4.4.1 Use of questionnaires.

A variety of Interviews was conducted among potential users of the system so as to find out what
features were desirable to be integrated into the system and to ensure that the system would be
acceptable to the Users.

 Observations.
i) A large number of the respondents lack a simple platform that that they would use to
sell their services and products.
ii) Majority of the respondents recommended for a better, simpler and informative
system that would ensure advertisement of vehicle sales and after sale vehicle
services like the mechanic and car wash services.

4.5 SYSTEM ANALYSIS

4.5.1 Feasibility Analysis
The main aim of the study was to find out the viability and practicability of undertaking this
project. The following were the outcomes of the study:-
Economic feasibility

The cost of running this project from start to finish was affordable. From the cost/benefit analysis
carried out, it was determined that the benefits of this system outweighed its cost by a good
margin
Technical feasibility

PHP and MYSQL were chosen for server side logic and HTML/CSS/JavaScript was chosen for
client-side presentation.
Operational feasibility
The system’s operation was determined to be feasible because it would solve user problems by
providing a cheap and reliable advertising platform. It lets the different users and organizations
have control of their information and how the system handles their Information. The Mobile
application ensures security and efficiency in the ticket verification system. Event goers are
ensured of convenience with user friendly procedures involved in the ticket purchase process.
However, all users would require basic computer knowledge and also some little training.

Legal feasibility

The System is legal as per both local and International laws. For good Legal Practice the System
has terms and conditions that bind Organizations Representatives.
4.6 Sequence Diagrams
4.6.1 Registration and Session Sequence diagram for users

4.6.2 Sequence diagram for admin authentication

4.6.3 Sequence diagram for admin logout
4.7 Use case Diagrams
4.7.1 Registration and Session use case diagram for users

User
verification User login

User

Register

Field Description
Use case Name User Registration and Sessions
Actors Admin, user
Purpose Registration/signing up of users
Overview This is used to register users so that he/she can be able to access online
exam services
Pre-conditions New user who is not yet registered to this site.
Policies A valid system user is recognized through logging in only.
Post conditions Update site database.
Priority High
Frequency High
Cross Reference F2
4.7.2 use case diagram for users taking a test

User
verification User login

Take test

Field Description
Use case Name Take test
Actors Admin, user.
Purpose Taking a test
Overview This is done to enable the vehicle details be submitted to the database so
that they can be displayed in the admin’s dashboard.
Pre-conditions Services that have not been included in the site and other feedbacks that
have not been considered.
Policies A user has to be given the correct services efficiently.
Post conditions Update site database and take actions on the provided feedbacks.
Priority High
Frequency High
 Cross Reference F1,F3

4.7.3 use case diagram for users adding a test

User
verification User login

Add test

Field Description
Use case Name Adding test
Actors Test conductor, admin
Purpose . Adding test
Overview This is done to enable the test details be submitted to the database so that
they can be displayed in the dashboard of admin and the TC who added it.
Pre-conditions Services that have not been included in the site and other feedbacks that
have not been considered.
Policies A user has to be given the correct services efficiently.
Post conditions Update site database and take actions on the provided feedbacks.
 Priority High
Frequency High
Cross Reference F1,F2

4.7.4 use case diagram for admin operations

Add users

Admin
dashboard

Edit tests

Delete users
Chapter 5. SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION AND TESTING

5.1 TEST ENVIRONMENT

The following machine specifications were used to test this system:
Laptop Model: Acer Aspire 5742G
Processor: Intel ® Core i5 ® CPU 2.67 GHz
Operating System: Windows 10 Ultimate.
System Type: 64-bit Operating system.
Installed Memory (RAM): 4GB.

5.2 PROGRAMMING TOOLS USED

In developing the system, different programming languages were used namely: JavaScript,
HTML, CSS and php. The above languages were used to develop the codes of the system where
php was used as the main scripting language, CSS was used to design the outlook of the system,
HTML was used to design the inputs of the system while JavaScript was used for validating the
system. On the database part, MySQL was used which is efficient to use.
5.3 TESTING OVERVIEW
Testing included running the system over different browsers. The browsers tested with include:
Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome.
It was worth noting that the system does well in all the three browsers named above. The above
browsers were chosen because they are the frequently used browsers all over the world. Many
internet browsers prefer Mozilla Firefox, Google chrome and Internet Explorer. It is too worth
noting that many people prefer Mozilla Firefox and thus for that reason, configuration of local
host was done with Mozilla Firefox. Mozilla is fast and easy to use unlike the other two
browsers. The other measure taken included the creation of folders on the local host, where users
project/pictures would be stored after uploading. The system does not contain heavy scripts that
can be rejected by some browsers and thus makes it comfortable for users to use the system in
any of the above mentioned browsers or any other browser like Netscape although it is not
tested using Netscape.

5.4 SAMPLE OUTPUT

 Registration
The system was tested by registering four users to the site. The registration involved using
unique usernames for each of the users since it is a mandate to provide a unique user names that
has not been registered by another user in the site. Secondly, I chose their passwords which
should be unique to prevent malicious people form hacking into users’ account. After
registration, user should login to access homepage. Below is a screen capture of the registration
and users login forms.

Main navigation
When a user is authenticated to the system, he/she is authenticated to the home page called
index. In this page, he/she can take tests and view results.
 6.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

6.1 INTRODUCTION
In the beginning, the task was to develop an online examination system which would enable
students to take tests and check results online and also for the admin and Test Conductors to add
tests online. In the end of the development phase, the system was able to achieve everything.
The user details are well saved in a MySQL database which is a better record keeping
mechanism than the currently used physical files.
In the long run, the system was able to support the above-mentioned services to the user. It
enabled provision of different platforms for a normal user and an administrator.
6.2 Discussion
The researcher was able to meet all the set objectives by the end of the project. The achievements
made in coming up with Online exam System were:

I) The system facilitated convenience to the students and Test

II) The researcher was able to learn more about coding in PHP

III) The researcher was able to learn more about system development by
implementing all the steps required by the methodology.
 6.3 RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the literature review, the following recommendations can be made for different sectors,
including universities, educational institutions, and online exam platform providers:
Universities and educational institutions should invest in online exam systems that offer
proctoring tools to minimize the risk of cheating. This can help to maintain academic integrity
and ensure fair and equitable assessment practices.
Online exam platform providers should focus on developing platforms that are user-friendly,
customizable, and can integrate with other educational technologies. This can help to improve
the efficiency and effectiveness of the examination process and enhance the overall student
experience.
Educational institutions should ensure that students receive proper training and support in using
online exam systems to avoid technical issues and disruptions during exams. This can be
achieved through the provision of online resources, tutorials, and support services.
Educational institutions should also consider the ethical implications of using online exam
systems, particularly with regards to privacy and data protection. It is important to ensure that
students' personal information is kept secure and that any data collected during exams is used
only for its intended purpose.
Online exam platform providers should explore the potential of new technologies such as
artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance the assessment process and provide
personalized learning opportunities for students. This can help to improve the quality of
education and enhance the overall student experience.
Universities and educational institutions should collaborate with online exam platform providers
to develop and implement best practices for the use of online exam systems. This can help to
ensure that these systems are used effectively and ethically, and that the assessment process is
fair and equitable for all students.
Overall, these recommendations can help to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of online
exam systems and enhance the overall student experience. Since the system is dynamic, further
enhancements can be incorporated into the system. First, an SMS server which enable students to
get real time notifications of results. Also, a mail server to enable users register with the correct
valid emails so that when they register, a link can be sent to their emails so that they mail click it
to activate their registration. This will also enable users to receive updates from the site and any
other subscriptions like newsletters and news

6.4 FUTURE WORKS

There are several areas of future works that could be explored to further enhance the
development and implementation of online exam systems:

Further research could be conducted to investigate the effectiveness of proctoring tools in

detecting cheating and maintaining academic integrity. This could involve exploring the potential
of new technologies such as facial recognition and eye-tracking to improve the accuracy of
proctoring tools

More studies could be conducted to evaluate the impact of online exam systems on student
learning outcomes and academic performance. This could involve comparing the results of
online exams with traditional exams and analyzing the factors that contribute to student success
in online exams.

Online exam platform providers could explore the potential of blockchain technology to enhance
the security and transparency of the examination process. This could involve developing
blockchain-based systems for the storage and verification of exam results and certificates.

Further research could be conducted to explore the ethical and legal implications of using online
exam systems, particularly with regards to privacy, data protection, and accessibility. This could
involve developing guidelines and best practices for the use of online exam systems that take
into account these issues.

Online exam platform providers could explore the potential of gamification and other
motivational techniques to enhance student engagement and motivation in the examination
process. This could involve developing online exam systems that incorporate elements of game
design to make the examination process more engaging and enjoyable for students.

6.5 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the literature review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of
online exam systems, highlighting their benefits, challenges, and future prospects. Online exam
systems offer several benefits, including flexibility, convenience, and immediate feedback,
which can improve the overall student experience. However, they also present several
challenges, including the potential for cheating and technical issues, which need to be addressed
through proctoring tools and other measures.
The review draws on relevant literature from various sources, including academic journals,
industry reports, and online platforms, to provide insights into the features, customization
options, and best practices for using online exam systems. The review also identifies several
future prospects for online exam systems, including the incorporation of new technologies such
as artificial intelligence and machine learning, and the potential of blockchain technology to
enhance the security and transparency of the examination process.Overall, the literature review
provides a valuable resource for universities, educational institutions, and online exam platform
providers to develop and implement best practices for the use of online exam systems. By
addressing the challenges and exploring the potential of new technologies, online exam systems
can be used effectively and ethically to enhance the quality of education and provide
personalized learning opportunities for students.