Automated computer software can be used to replace manual testing methods. A computer program presents students with the test questions, and answers are inputted directly into the program. This allows students to take out-of-class exams via Internet access, and also exempts the teacher from having to grade the exams by hand. Another benefit of automated testing is that randomization can be used to give every student a slightly different version of the test. This is especially useful in mathematics testing -- to ensure that students are not exchanging answers.
Automated systems are also used to grade multiple-choice tests that students take manually. Companies such as Scantron and Inspiroscan manufacture machines that scan special testing sheets. Students are given a printed exam with multiple-choice questions and answer options. Answers are then recorded on a scannable test sheet rather than a printed exam. The teacher inputs the test answer key into the scanning machine, then scans the student exam sheets. The machine automatically checks the selected answers for accuracy, comparing them to the answer key. This significantly reduces the time required for grading exams.
Similar to automated testing, essays and other written assignments are checked by automated systems. Teachers may use an automated program that scans student assays for possible cases of plagiarism. The program automatically checks the wording and structure of the essay and compares it to any other texts entered into the system, including online publication and peer-student essays. This not only saves on the paper produced by turning in printed essays, but it also gives teachers an advanced tool to ensure that students are not copying work from other sources.
Automated sign-in systems are used to track classroom attendance. Students are assigned special login information that they enter at the start of each class session. Teachers are therefore able to easily track the attendance record of large classrooms. In lab-based classrooms, these automated systems are also used to save student work. This gives teachers a convenient way to compile classroom assignments and keep track of student progress.