Paper-based tests have been transitioned on-screen as part of a successful test conversion project
Saltaire, West Yorkshire, UK, 16th February 2021 – BTL is pleased to share that Ascentis, known for their user-friendly qualifications in ESOL, English & Maths, and Access to Higher Education, has transitioned a number of paper-based qualifications to computer-based testing as part of a project undertaken by the Surpass Test Conversion Service.
Ascentis deliver qualifications into a large number of colleges, training providers and organisations throughout the UK, and serve approximately 200,000 learners each year. After completing a successful trial, Ascentis opted for Surpass in order to initially convert some of their paper-based qualifications to on-screen delivery, as well as transitioning some of their multiple-choice-based Short Online Qualifications to Surpass.
In order to convert paper-based tests for on-screen delivery as efficiently as possible, Ascentis utilised the Surpass Test Conversion Service. The service is designed to help organisations transition their content for on-screen delivery, with the support of an experienced team to ensure qualifications are presented well and make the most of Surpass technology. In consultation with Ascentis, the team re-created a number of test forms in Surpass to an agreed schedule, with thorough quality review processes and communication with the customer throughout the project.
With their mission to ‘enable learning through innovative education and exceptional customer service’ Ascentis is passionate about creating a positive experience for their learners and centers alike. Transitioning many of their qualifications to on-screen delivery has also allowed Ascentis to use the Surpass Online Invigilation service. Since June 2020, Ascentis has been delivering assessments direct to learners via the secure dual-camera proctoring solution provided by the Surpass team.
Commenting on their experiences with Surpass, Diane Samomon, Head of Development from Ascentis stated:
Converting paper-based assessments so that they would be suitable for online delivery was a completely new project for Ascentis and one which we are happy to say was extremely positive. Collaborative working between the Ascentis Research and Product Development team and the BTL Test Conversion team enabled the project to run as smoothly as possible. We are pleased that Ascentis can now offer this option for our delivering centres and plan to continue with further assessments for our learners in the future.
Sonya Whitworth, Managing Director for BTL, creators of Surpass went on to say:
We are delighted that Ascentis has joined the Surpass Community. We’ve seen an increasing demand for our Test Conversion Service over recent months, particularly as many UK Awarding Organisations have huge pressures on their teams to migrate as many qualifications to digital delivery as they can at present. Our team of experts are on hand to help organisations like Ascentis make the process as smooth as possible.
Hear more from Ascentis in this short update where they discuss the newly launched Essential Digital Skills qualification.
Discover more about how the Surpass Team can support your organisation, in this article and update with Ashleigh Whittle, Surpass Training and Test Conversion Manager.
About Ascentis
Ascentis is both an awarding organisation regulated by Ofqual, CCEA and Qualification Wales, and an access validating agency for Access to Higher Education Diplomas, licensed by the Quality Assurance Agency.
Ascentis has a portfolio of user-friendly qualifications which include ESOL, English & Maths, Teacher Training, Construction, Digital Learning, Apprenticeships, Progression, Short Online Qualifications and Access to Higher Education Diplomas.
Ascentis has no shareholders, it is a charity and its sole purpose is to provide the optimal level of service to all of its customers. As a recognised charity, Ascentis are committed to the provision of clear progression routes that enable learners to climb the ‘qualifications ladder’ and achieve their lifelong aspirations.
The flexible and learner-friendly ethos has resulted in centres throughout the UK choosing to run their qualifications with Ascentis.
Find out more on the website.
About BTL & Surpass
Established in 1985, BTL Group Ltd. has grown into a renowned global provider of assessment technology and services trusted by some of the world’s highest profile providers of high-stakes summative assessments. Since 2007, BTL’s core focus has been the development of its award-winning assessment platform, Surpass. Surpass is considered to be one of the best solutions available and has been used internationally to create, deliver and mark over 30 million computer-based tests to date. BTL’s success has been due to its innovative approach to technological development, its passion for significantly improving assessment for everyone, its creative core, and its refreshing approach to collaboration with partners and Surpass Community members.
Find out more at www.surpass.com
