In some instances, the accuracy, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of the registration process can be enhanced by organizing and streamlining an existing manual process. At the request of the client, NBME testing services staff will analyze existing procedures and formulate recommendations for improving the registration process.
For those clients desiring assistance with their test registration process, the NBME offers a unique online computerized registration system. This system permits prompt, efficient review of examinee credentials and test registration.
Individuals are assigned to a testing center in accordance with their preferences and with the availability of space at each center. The computerized registration system offers an efficient system for the following:
Our registration system also efficiently manages correspondence with examinees regarding any problems with application materials.
Both efficiency and accuracy in registration and test center assignment can be improved significantly with corresponding cost savings. For those clients interested in considering the NBME's computerized registration system, our staff will assist in determining whether a system which meets the client's requirements represents a cost-effective alternative.
Assistance is available to clients in analyzing examinee volume and geographic distribution to determine the most efficient and cost-effective distribution of test centers. Where requested by the clients, we can use our extensive network of contacts to help establish centers in desired locations and appropriate settings. We can arrange access to computer testing sites worldwide.
Another component of the NBME's test administration services is periodic site visits to test centers to observe testing conditions and test administration practices. Such visits provide an opportunity to assess the adequacy of security precautions related to the receipt and storage of test materials, assure the appropriateness and consistency of testing conditions, and recommend improvements in test administration.
An important component in assuring the validity of the testing process is the appropriateness and consistency of testing conditions. To a large extent, these conditions are determined by the skill of the proctors and their understanding of and adherence to sound administration practices.
We take great care in preparing proctors' manuals that describe clearly and accurately the following:
The manual must be comprehensive in its inclusion of important topics--yet easily readable so that efficient, accurate communication takes place.
Our testing services staff maintains contact with proctors to solicit suggestions for improvement in the content, precision, and clarity of the proctors' manuals.
The NBME conducts training sessions for new proctors and periodic refresher courses for experienced proctors. We have found that such training can significantly improve the quality of test administration.
The training sessions offer proctors the opportunity to exchange information and experiences with one another and to discuss procedures which have been found to be effective in preventing problems in administering examinations.
At the client's request, we can provide such training. The training sessions can be conducted locally or regionally.
The NBME maintains its own shipping and receiving department to assure that the test materials are shipped and stored in a timely and secure fashion. Our staff is experienced in assuring that:
Discrepancies in shipments received from testing centers are investigated promptly so that appropriate corrective action can be implemented.