Abstract: Methods for performing secure on-line testing without the need for pre-installation of a secure browser are provided. The methods use a general purpose web browser which is already installed on the user's computer and extend the browser so as to restrict the functionality of the user's computer in at least one way which makes the computer more secure with regard to testing. The extending occurs through the transmission of trusted code to the user's computer over the internet. The elimination of the need for pre-installation represents a major savings to school districts in terms of the amount of IT professional time that must be dedicated to on-line testing, especially for school districts having large numbers of installed computers. Apparatus for practicing the methods is also provided.

Abstract: A computerized system for efficiently transforming educational materials composed of questions and answers into an on-line computer interactive form is provided. Computer readable images of pages of textual and/or graphical material are created by, for example, optical scanning of paper and pencil test sheets. The captured images are modified by the application of answer formats, examples of which include underlining, highlighting, circling a correct answer, and the like. The modified captured images are stored on, for example, computer disks for distribution to users. When the disks are used, answer formats are automatically applied to the questions thus allowing them to be answered in a computer interactive form.

Abstract: Computerized systems for optically scanning "bubble" sheet responses to test questions and then electronically scoring and reporting test results are provided. The systems employ templates which contain (a) computer readable images of the test questions and (b) overlay records which contain (i) the coordinates of icons representing the possible answers to the questions and (ii) an identification of the correct answers. The templates are merged with the scanned "bubble" sheet responses and the results displayed on a video monitor as if the test had been administered on a computer, rather than through the use of a "bubble" sheet. The templates minimize the amount of computer storage space required to produce the video display of the test results.