National Open University of Nigeria, Maiduguri Study Centre Students Perception of E-Examination

Abstract

At the 54^th session of the Senate of the National Open University of Nigeria, the Senate approved the commencement of e-examination as from 2009/2010 academic session for all students of the University. Consequently, the students took their examination during that session electronically.  This paper examines the perception of these students about e-examination. This is of special interest because it was the first time they were being examined electronically. The objectives of the study were to determine i) user familiarity with e-examinations; ii) students e-examination experience; iii) students satisfaction with the e-examination; and iv) students’ perception of the quality of the e-examination. Survey design was used for the study and a total of one hundred and two students in their second, third and fourth years of study participated and served as samples of the study. The convenience sampling technique was used for the study and data was collected through the use of a questionnaire.  Descriptive (frequencies, mean and standard deviation) and (chi-square) statistics were used for data analysis using Microsoft Excel (2007 Edition) and Smith’s Statistical Package (SSP). The findings of the study revealed that students of NOUN Maiduguri study centre perceived low computer user familiarity which retarded their performance in the e-examination. They agreed to have an encouraging experience with the e-examination. Even though, the students were greatly satisfied with the e-examination, they still preferred the pen and paper examination. Furthermore, they perceived that the questions were well displayed and valid, however, they expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of e-examination questions. Based on the findings, recommendations were proffered for the students and the University Management. Amongst which are that the National Open University of Nigeria should introduce a mandatory general studies course on Introduction to Computer Studies and practice exercises for e-examinations as part of the course contents which students should be exposed to.

Keywords: e-examinations, Maiduguri Study Centre, National Open University of Nigeria, perception, Students.