The Digital Learning Center can be a great option for large-enrollment courses. Even if a class has hundreds of students, it can often accommodate exams, especially when reservations are made early, before high-demand dates fill up. Often, the key is simply adding an extra day or two to the exam window. This helps distribute demand and makes it easier for everyone to secure a spot.
From a teaching and learning perspective, using the DLC for some assessments, while delivering others in different formats or settings, can offer the best of both worlds. For example, instructors might:
- Reserve the DLC for summative, digital exams in a secure proctoring environment to assess what students have learned so far in the course.
- Conduct more formative assessments or quizzes in class using paper or online tools.
- Use Respondus LockDown Browser or Monitor for remote testing when in-person seating isn’t essential.
- Consider using Akindi or Gradescope, tools that allow you to use bubble sheets for in-class assessments.
This blended approach not only eases logistical challenges but also supports varied assessment strategies that align with different learning objectives.
Peak weeks, such as fall break and finals week, are times when the DLC can reach full capacity. But the earlier you reserve, the better the chance the DLC staff can help with solutions, whether that means adjusting the exam window or recommending alternative formats when appropriate.
For questions about scheduling or to start the reservation process, contact Miranda McCown, Digital Learning Center Exam Commons Operations Manager, at mmccown2@nebraska.edu. For pedagogy questions related to exams, contact the Center for Transformative Teaching at ctt@unl.edu.
More details at: https://its.unl.edu/departments/digital-learning-center/