The Royal College of Ophthalmologists selects the Surpass online proctoring service

BTL Group has announced it will be working with The Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth), to deliver on-screen examinations using the Surpass Online Proctoring service.

Saltaire, West Yorkshire, UK, 26 October 2020.

“The BTL team will be directly supporting the RCOphth with remote delivery, while their Surpass item authoring and test creation will be undertaken in collaboration with Surpass Community partner Ripley Systems. Ripley’s exam management system will leverage the Surpass test driver to allow organizations to securely deliver into BTL’s global test center network and online proctoring service.

The RCOphth are the only professional membership body for medically qualified ophthalmologists and for those who are undergoing specialist training to become ophthalmologists. They join existing Surpass Community members RCPCH and NBME in their use of Surpass for high-stakes medical qualifications.

Utilizing the Surpass Online Proctoring service will provide a convenient and secure way for candidates to continue with their qualifications from their own homes. The Surpass dual-camera online proctoring service uses the candidate’s smartphone camera and webcam to provide a full view of the test environment, as well as capturing what’s happening on-screen during the test. Tests can either be monitored live, or reviewed by a team of trained proctors to detect potential malpractice and maintain test security.

Dylan Costello, Head of Examinations at RCOphth said:

 ‘COVID-19 greatly impacted the delivery of RCOphth exams throughout 2020, especially with the practical exams that use real-life patients. In response to the pandemic, we have developed an innovative video-based examination process to replicate the real-life patient experience for the candidates. The Surpass Online Invigilation system will be key in continuing to provide ophthalmologists in training with a high quality examination and assessment service.’

Sonya Whitworth, Managing Director of BTL added:

‘We are delighted to welcome the Royal College of Ophthalmologists to the Surpass Community. It’s vital that qualifications such as the ones delivered by RCOphth continue during this time of uncertainty, and we’re proud that our service has been selected to make that happen. Surpass is a versatile platform for the delivery of all kinds of assessments, and adding another high-profile organisation from the medical sector to our community is a real testament to how Surpass can meet the needs of these high-stakes examinations.’

About the RCOphth

The Royal College of Ophthalmologists believes that everyone should have access to high quality eye care.  They champion excellence in the practice of ophthalmology through standards in training, education and assessment of ophthalmologists; supporting the promotion of research and innovation throughout the ophthalmic community.

RCOphth are the only professional membership body for medically qualified ophthalmologists and for those who are undergoing specialist training to become ophthalmologists.”