Bring‑Your‑Own‑Device (BYOD) Exam Pilot at Aalto university: More Authentic Yet Controlled Digital Exams
For the teachers the pilots provide a controlled digital exam environment: by default, unwanted resources are blocked, and teachers can selectively permit links, attachments, and approved applications (such as Office tools or programming environments). Exams run as MyCourses quizzes configured through Schoolyear’s settings widget. This setup gives teachers clear control over allowed resources and reduces manual tasks like printing, distributing, and collecting paper exams.
For the students the pilots offer more exams (alongside Safe Exam Browser SEB and online take home exams) where they can use their own devices. In these exams there will be consistent digital settings with explicit guidance on permitted materials and programs, offering more authentic ways to demonstrate competencies through tool supported tasks.
The BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Exam Solution and Process Development project's purpose is to enable controlled on‑campus digital exams with no access to unwanted resources, using students’ own devices by implementing a system that bridges the gap between strictly locked‑down environments (such as Safe Exam Browser, SEB) and completely open ones. The initial emphasis is on exams, with the intent to extend controlled environments to course work and applied assignments where appropriate. Aligned with Aalto’s Future‑led learning strategy, the project supports high‑quality teaching, fosters learner‑centered assessment, sustains strong digital pedagogy, and reduces manual administration and paper use.
Next steps after the spring term pilot exams include analyzing exam pilots’ outcomes, finalizing recommended configurations and policies, and documenting best practices for exam types that take use of external resources or specific software. The project team will prepare adoption guidance and support materials and present a phased rollout plan for gate model decision-making.
More information: Karoliina Pakkanen (Project manager, Teacher Services), Anni Rintala, (Process owner, LES)