Remote versus face-to-face assessments
Testing via video conferencing has become increasingly popular since the Covid 19 pandemic. I offer full diagnostic assessments face-to-face at my consulting rooms in central Hove and remotely, via video conferencing with test response booklets being posted out to you before the appointment. Research has confirmed that both modalities produce valid results. The choice of which to opt for rests with you.
On this page I will outline the requirements for remote assessments and the advantages for each modality to help you decide which to request.
What you need for a remote assessment
In order for a remote assessment to be successful, you will need access to suitable equipment and a suitable environment.
Equipment
- A computer or tablet with a screen size of at least 38 cm/15 inches, measured diagonally.
- A webcam, either integrated as part of your computer or standalone.
- Good sound via speakers or headphones.
- A stable and reasonably fast internet connection.
- Use of Zoom video conferencing. You don’t need an account to use this.
Environment
- A quiet room, free from distractions or interruptions and where you will not be overheard and can talk openly.
- Somewhere you can sit comfortably and work at the computer and also at the paper-and-pencil exercises.
Advantages of remote assessments
- Remote assessments save time and money as you don’t have to travel to the assessment location. The elimination of travel can also be important if you find travelling to an unknown location stressful or tiring.
- The assessment can be conducted in the comfort of your own home and familiar surroundings. This can be particularly important if you can be nervous in an unfamiliar setting.
- You can turn off your video during breaks which might help you relax.
- You can have an assessment from anywhere in the world.
Advantages of face-to-face assessments
- You don’t need to organise the environment, receive, store and return the test materials for or be responsible for the technology used. It is all taken care of. You also avoid the risk of technical difficulties which can disrupt the session. This can be particularly important if you find it difficult or stressful to organise things.
- Being in a consulting room means there are none of the distractions you might find at home. Being in a different environment might also find it easier to put yourself in the required frame of mind to focus on the assessment. This can be particularly important if you have difficulty with concentration.
- Some people find it easier to focus when communicating face-to-face rather than via video conferencing, when they might “zone out” more easily.
For information on how to request a diagnostic assessment, please see How to request a diagnostic assessment.
For information about the cost of a diagnostic assessment and how to pay, please see Fees.
For information about what happens during a diagnostic assessment, please see Diagnostic assessments.
If you have any questions regarding assessments in higher education, please contact me at
