Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the field of online exam monitoring, and more particularly, a system and a method to monitor user actions in an online examination.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The growth of electronic-learning and certification has introduced both opportunities and challenges. Traditionally, upon completion of a registered course in an institute, a user would receive a course completion certificate after fulfilling course criteria such as engaging, completing assignments, and qualifying the assessments allotted for a certain course. The above process ensures that the user has genuinely engaged with videos, material, and assessments uploaded for the certain course that the user opted for. However, in recent years, a concerning issue has arisen where third parties are procuring the course completion certificate on behalf of the user, often before they've finished coursework or the assessments. This practice degrades the integrity of an education system, as the course completion certificate is granted without the user showcasing essential skills or knowledge.
[0003] Further, a fundamental issue in the online examination is the lack of reliable and secure authentication methods. While many test centers rely on simple username-password authentication, these methods are often insufficient to ensure the identity of the user.
[0004] The ability to ensure that the user is physically present at a correct location during the online examination is another critical challenge. While many examination test centers require students to be on-site, verification at the test centers often lack mechanisms.
[0005] Further, the growth of unlicensed and unaccredited online institutions providing courses and certifications is an issue. The user may utilize these online institutions to obtain the course completion certification that lacks credibility of those awarded by a recognized educational body. In a certain situation, the user may even resort to dishonest means, such as paying proxies to take exams for them at legitimate testing centers or attempting to impersonate others during exams. This situation has led to a surge in fraudulent certifications circulating, which not only devalues legitimate degrees and credentials but also creates a false sense of accomplishment.
[0006] In an example, directorate general of shipping received many complaints that marine training institutes (MTIs) that are unrecognized and unregistered issued certificates to candidates without attending their courses or taking any proper exams. Few computer centers issued certificates in the name of MTIs. This brought down the reputation of Indian Certificates in the Global Shipping Industry.
[0007] Hence, there is a need for an improved system and method to monitor user actions in an online examination which addresses the aforementioned issue(s).
OBJECTIVE OF THE INVENTION
[0008] An objective of the present invention is to verify identity of a user to an image present in a database (Aadhar data, name, image, passport data, and an Indian National Database of Seafarers number) by utilizing unique identification number or an Indian National Database of Seafarers Number thereby verifying the identity of the user.
[0009] Another objective of the present invention is to capture the image at a frequent interval throughout the online examination to compare the image and verify the image with the database, thereby terminating the online examination, if the verification of the image fails.
[0010] Yet, another objective of the present invention is to identify details of the user device on which the user is taking an online examination at a test center. The details includes Universal Unique Identifier, and internet protocol address uploaded by an institute and verifying the details with pre-approved details uploaded by the institute during the online examination and terminating the online examination if the verification of the user device fails thereby ensuring that the user device is authorized and utilized in the online examination.
[0011] Yet, another objective of the present invention is to block one or more opened tabs automatically in the user device during the online examination, thereby preventing the user from screen sharing, and accessing external sources of information.
[0012] Another objective of the present invention is to generate an analysis report, including ranking reports, course trend reports, zone-wise reports, performance reports of the user within each registered MTI, including details of courses taken and pass/fail percentages, to assess and analyze the performance of each MTI, thereby enabling tracking, evaluating, and enhancing training outcomes at MTIs.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0013] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a system to monitor user actions in an online examination is provided. The system includes a processing subsystem hosted on a server wherein the processing subsystem is configured to execute on a network to control bidirectional communications among a plurality of modules. The processing subsystem includes a registration module configured to enable a plurality of users in an institute to enroll for one or more courses by allowing the plurality of users to enter one or more details, wherein the one or more details includes a name, image, and an Aadhar number, wherein the registration module is configured to generate a unique identification number to each of the plurality of users. The processing subsystem also includes an input module operatively coupled to the registration module, wherein the input module is configured to receive a unique identification number from a user wherein the user attends an online examination upon completion of the one or more courses. Further, the processing subsystem includes an identity verification module operatively coupled to the input module, wherein the identity verification module is configured to receive a first image of the user though a web camera integrated into a user device to verify the first image with the unique identification number stored in a database wherein the database includes an image, Aadhar data, a unique identification number data, and a passport data of the user. Further, the processing subsystem also includes an image verification module operatively coupled to the identity verification module, wherein the image verification module is configured to receive a second image of the user at one or more instances during the online examination to compare the second image with the image present in the database to ensure identity of the user remains constant throughout the online examination. The image verification module is also configured to terminate the online examination if verification of the second image fails. Furthermore, the processing subsystem includes a mapping module operatively coupled to the image verification module, wherein the mapping module is configured to allow an administrator to map a universal unique identifier, an internet protocol address of the user device to the unique identification number uploaded by the institute, wherein the user device is operated by a user. The mapping module is also configured to verify the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device upon comparing the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device to pre-approved details of the user device uploaded by the institute prior to the online examination to ensure that the user device is authorized and used in the online examination, wherein the pre-approved details includes the universal unique identifier, the internet protocol address of the user device. The mapping module is further configured to terminate the online examination if the verification of the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device fails. Moreover, the processing subsystem includes a screen control module operatively coupled to the mapping module, wherein the screen control module is configured to prevent a screen sharing, currently opened tabs in the user device by automatically closing one or more tabs during the online examination. Additionally, the processing subsystem includes a report module operatively coupled to the screen control module, wherein the report module is configured to generate a plurality of analysis reports, wherein the plurality of analysis reports includes a ranking report, a course trend report, and a zone wise report of the user. The report module is also configured to generate a report of the user in one or more institutes, wherein the report includes the one or more course details, pass and fail percentage of a plurality of users to analyze performance of the one or more institutes. The processing subsystem also includes a feedback module operatively coupled to the report module, wherein the feedback module is configured to allow the plurality of users to provide a feedback and one or more complaints on performance of the one or more institutes. The feedback module is also configured to allow an expert to view the feedback and the one or more complaints to provide one or more replies to the plurality of users.
[0014] In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method to monitor user actions in an online examination is provided. The method includes enabling, by a registration module, a plurality of users to register in an institute to enroll for one or more courses by allowing the plurality of users to enter one or more details, wherein the one or more details includes a name, image, and an Aadhar number, wherein the registration module is configured to generate a unique identification number to each of the plurality of users. The method also includes receiving, by an input module, a unique identification number from a user wherein the user attends an online examination upon completion of the one or more courses. Further, the method includes receiving, by an identity verification module, a first image of the user though a web camera integrated into a user device to verify the first image with the unique identification number stored in a database wherein the database includes an image, Aadhar data, a unique identification number data, and a passport data of the user. Further, the method also includes receiving, by an image verification module, a second image of the user at one or more instances during the online examination to compare the second image with the image present in the database to ensure identity of the user remains constant throughout the online examination. Furthermore, the method includes terminating, by the image verification module, the online examination if verification of the second image fails. Additionally, the method includes allowing, by a mapping module, an administrator to map a universal unique identifier, an internet protocol address of the user device to the unique identification number uploaded by the institute, wherein the user device is operated by a user. The method includes verifying, by the mapping module, the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device upon comparing the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device to pre-approved details of the user device uploaded by the institute prior to the online examination to ensure that the user device is authorized and used in the online examination, wherein the pre-approved details includes the universal unique identifier, the internet protocol address of the user device. The method also includes terminating, by the mapping module, the online examination if the verification of the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device fails. Further, the method includes preventing, by a screen control module, a screen sharing, currently opened tabs in the user device by automatically closing one or more tabs during the online examination. Further, the method also includes generating, by a report module, a plurality of analysis reports, wherein the plurality of analysis reports includes a ranking report, a course trend report, and a zone wise report of the user. Furthermore, the method includes generating, by the report module, a report of the user in one or more institutes, wherein the report includes the one or more course details, pass and fail percentage of a plurality of users to analyze performance of the one or more institutes. Moreover, the method includes allowing, by a feedback module, the plurality of users to provide a feedback and one or more complaints on performance of the one or more institutes. Additionally, the method includes allowing, by the feedback module, an expert to view the feedback and the one or more complaints to provide one or more replies to the plurality of users.
[0015] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present disclosure, a more particular description of the disclosure will follow by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended figures. It is to be appreciated that these figures depict only typical embodiments of the disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting in scope. The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the appended figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying figures in which:
[0017] FIG. 1 is a block diagram representation of a system to monitor user actions in an online examination in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0018] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the system to monitor user actions in an online examination of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0019] FIG. 3 is a flow chart representation for conducting a proctored online examination and certification of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0020] FIG. 4 (a) and 4 (b) is a flow chart representation to verify eligibility of a user for an online examination by a marine training institute and the user of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0021] FIG. 5 is a flow chart representation to verify payment, eligibility and reattempt for the online examination form student-end of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0022] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a computer or a server in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0023] FIG. 7 (a) illustrates a flow chart representing the steps involved in a method to monitor user actions in an online examination in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
[0024] FIG. 7 (b) illustrates continued steps of the method of FIG. 7 (a) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0025] Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the figures by conventional symbols, and the figures may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the figures with details that will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the description herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0026] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the figures and specific language will be used to describe them. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the disclosure as would normally occur to those skilled in the art are to be construed as being within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0027] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such a process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or subsystems or elements or structures or components preceded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices, sub-systems, elements, structures, components, additional devices, additional sub-systems, additional elements, additional structures or additional components. Appearances of the phrase "in an embodiment", "in another embodiment" and similar language throughout this specification may, but not necessarily do, all refer to the same embodiment.
[0028] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are only illustrative and not intended to be limiting.
[0029] In the following specification and the claims, reference will be made to a number of terms, which shall be defined to have the following meanings. The singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0030] Embodiments of the present disclosure relates to system to monitor user actions in an online examination is provided. The system includes a processing subsystem hosted on a server wherein the processing subsystem is configured to execute on a network to control bidirectional communications among a plurality of modules. The processing subsystem includes a registration module configured to enable a plurality of users to register in an institute to enroll for one or more courses by allowing the plurality of users to enter one or more details, wherein the one or more details includes a name, image, and an Aadhar number, wherein the registration module is configured to generate a unique identification number to each of the plurality of users. The processing subsystem also includes an input module operatively coupled to the registration module, wherein the input module is configured to receive a unique identification number from a user wherein the user attends an online examination upon completion of the one or more courses. Further, the processing subsystem includes an identity verification module operatively coupled to the input module, wherein the identity verification module is configured to receive a first image of the user though a web camera integrated into a user device to verify the first image with the unique identification number stored in a database wherein the database includes an image, Aadhar data, a unique identification number data, and a passport data of the user. Further, the processing subsystem also includes an image verification module operatively coupled to the identity verification module, wherein the image verification module is configured to receive a second image of the user at one or more instances during the online examination to compare the second image with the image present in the database to ensure identity of the user remains constant throughout the online examination. The image verification module is also configured to terminate the online examination if verification of the second image fails. Furthermore, the processing subsystem includes a mapping module operatively coupled to the image verification module, wherein the mapping module is configured to allow an administrator to map a universal unique identifier, an internet protocol address of the user device to the unique identification number uploaded by the institute, wherein the user device is operated by a user. The mapping module is also configured to verify the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device upon comparing the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device to pre-approved details of the user device uploaded by the institute prior to the online examination to ensure that the user device is authorized and used in the online examination, wherein the pre-approved details includes the universal unique identifier, the internet protocol address of the user device. The mapping module is further configured to terminate the online examination if the verification of the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device fails. Moreover, the processing subsystem includes a screen control module operatively coupled to the mapping module, wherein the screen control module is configured to prevent a screen sharing, currently opened tabs in the user device by automatically closing one or more tabs during the online examination. Additionally, the processing subsystem includes a report module operatively coupled to the screen control module, wherein the report module is configured to generate a plurality of analysis reports, wherein the plurality of analysis reports includes a ranking report, a course trend report, and a zone wise report of the user. The report module is also configured to generate a report of the user in one or more institutes, wherein the report includes the one or more course details, pass and fail percentage of a plurality of users to analyze performance of the one or more institutes. The processing subsystem also includes a feedback module operatively coupled to the report module, wherein the feedback module is configured to allow the plurality of users to provide a feedback and one or more complaints on performance of the one or more institutes. The feedback module is also configured to allow an expert to view the feedback and the one or more complaints to provide one or more replies to the plurality of users.
[0031] FIG. 1 is a block diagram representation of a system to monitor user actions in an online examination in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system (100) includes a processing subsystem (105) hosted on a server (108). In one embodiment, the server (110) may include a cloud-based server. In another embodiment, parts of the server (110) may be a local server coupled to a first user device. The processing subsystem (105) is configured to execute on a network (115) to control bidirectional communications among a plurality of modules. In one example, the network (115) may be a private or public local area network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN), such as the Internet. In another embodiment, the network (115) may include both wired and wireless communications according to one or more standards and/or via one or more transport mediums. In one example, the network (115) may include wireless communications according to one of the 802.11 or Bluetooth specification sets, or another standard or proprietary wireless communication protocol. In yet another embodiment, the network (115) may also include communications over a terrestrial cellular network, including, a global system for mobile communications (GSM), code division multiple access (CDMA), and/or enhanced data for global evolution (EDGE) network.
[0032] The processing subsystem (105) includes a registration module (130), an input module (140), an identity verification module (150), an image verification module (160), a mapping module (170), a screen control module (180), a report module (190) and a feedback module (200).
[0033] The registration module (130) is configured to enable a plurality of users to register in an institute to enroll for one or more courses by allowing the plurality of users to enter one or more details. The one or more details includes a name, image, and an Aadhar number. For example, a student named Mary intends to register for a course offered in a marine training institute, Mary would enter her name, upload a photograph, and provide her Aadhar number as part of a registration process. The above-mentioned information is stored in an MTIs database allowing Mary to securely enroll in the one or more courses provided by the marine training institutes. The registration module (130) is also configured to generate a unique identification number for each of the plurality of users. Typically, the unique identification number is an Indian National Database of Seafarers (INDoS) number assigned to each of the plurality of users to ensure distinct identification among the plurality of users. The Indian National Database of Seafarers (INDoS) is a centralized system managed by a Directorate General of Shipping (DGS). The purpose of the INDoS is to maintain a record of all Indian seafarers who are certified to work on merchant ships. Typically, examples of data stored in the INDoS includes, but is not limited to name, Aadhar data, image, qualification, certifications, sea service records, medical fitness, and other relevant information.
[0034] Further, the Director General of Shipping (DGS) is a Statutory authority for Maritime Education in India. Typically, the DGS has provided approximately 48 courses approvals to various Maritime Training Institutes (MTI) across India, to conduct the courses. These courses vary in nature of number of days, in eligibility, in course curriculum. At end of these courses, the MTIs used to conduct their own in-house exam either written or oral, and then they used to issue course completion certificates to the students or the plurality of users.
[0035] The input module (140) is operatively coupled to the registration module (130). The input module (140) is configured to receive a unique identification number from a user. The user attends an online examination upon completion of the one or more courses. For example, once the user completes the one or more courses selected during registration, the user is required to attend the online examination to obtain a certificate. Upon arriving at a test center (MTIs), the user is provided with a user device (240, FIG. 2). The user device (240, FIG. 2) includes a question paper with questions related to the one or more courses taken. When the user accesses the user device (240, FIG. 2), the user is prompted to enter the unique identification number. It must be noted that, the user device (240, FIG. 2) may include, but is not limited to, a mobile phone, desktop computer, portable digital assistant (PDA), smart phone, tablet, ultra-book, netbook, laptop, multi-processor system, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronic system, or any other communication device that a user may use. In some embodiments, the user device may comprise a display module (not shown) to display information (for example, in the form of user interfaces). In further embodiments, the user device may comprise one or more of touch screens, accelerometers, gyroscopes, cameras, microphones, global positioning system (GPS) devices, and so forth.
[0036] For example, the one or more institutes should ensure that following system (user device (240, FIG. 2)) requirements are available for smooth conduct of the online examination, proper monitoring and a clear display of questions to the user to maintain security and integrity during the online examination prior to commencement of an exam to avoid disturbances during the online examination. The user device requirements includes, but is not limited to the following:
• RAM (random access memory) - Minimum 1 GB.
• Hard Disk - Minimum 250 GB (GigaByte); (HDD (Hard Disc Drive /SSD (Solid State Drive).
• Processor - Dual Core or Higher (Preferred Intel i3 / i5 processor).
• IP(Internet Protocol) Camera / Web Camera minimum Resolution 640x480 pixel (with Audio Mic Option).
• Screen resolution of at least 1024x768 is required for proper and complete viewing of screens. Higher resolution will be accepted.
• Operating System - Windows 10 x64Bit or Higher based Operating System.
• Web Browser (Preferred Updated Version of Chrome or Firefox).
[0037] The identity verification module (150) is operatively coupled to the input module (140). The identity verification module (150) is configured to receive a first image of the user though the web camera integrated into a user device (240, FIG. 2) to verify the first image with the unique identification number stored in a database. As used herein, the first image is an initial image captured in real-time as soon as the user arrives to his/her place at a designated spot to begin the online examination. The first image is then compared to data stored in the database. Examples of data stored in the database includes, but is not limited to an image, Aadhar data, a unique identification number data, and a passport data of the user.
[0038] The image verification module (160) is operatively coupled to the identity verification module (150). The image verification module (160) is configured to receive a second image of the user at one or more instances during the online examination to compare the second image with the image present in the database to ensure identity of the user remains constant throughout the online examination. As used herein, the second image is an additional image captured during the online examination, without the user’s knowledge. The image verification module (160) is also configured to terminate the online examination if verification of the second image fails.
[0039] The mapping module (170) is operatively coupled to the image verification module (160). The mapping module (170) is configured to allow an administrator to map a universal unique identifier, an internet protocol address of the user device (240, FIG. 2) to the unique identification number uploaded by the institute. Typically, the user device (240, FIG. 2) is operated by a user. The mapping module (170) is also configured to verify the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device (240, FIG. 2) upon comparing the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device (240, FIG. 2) to a pre-approved details of the user device (240, FIG. 2) uploaded by the institute prior to the online examination to ensure that the user device (240, FIG. 2) is authorized and used in the online examination. The pre-approved details includes the universal unique identifier, the internet protocol address of the user device (240, FIG. 2). The mapping module (170) is also configured to terminate the online examination if the verification of the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device (240, FIG. 2) fails. For example, as soon as the user completes the one or more courses in a specific institute, he/her is eligible for the online examination. The institute then uploads details of the user device (240, FIG. 2) into a server which is configured to host the online examination. The details include, but is not limited to universal unique identifier (UUID), a string that identifies the user device (240, FIG. 2), and the internet protocol (IP) address, which is the unique address assigned to the user device. These details are considered as the pre-approved details. As soon as the user attempts to access the online examination, the administrator verifies the UUID and the IP address of the user device (240, FIG. 2) to match with the pre-approved details that are uploaded by the institute. This comparison is done in real-time, providing immediate feedback. If both the UUID and IP address match, the user is granted access to the online examination, ensuring that the user device (240, FIG. 2) is authorized for use in the online examination. However, if the UUID or the IP address doesn’t match the pre-approved details, this indicates that the user device (240, FIG. 2) being used might not be authorized, potentially due to fraudulent activity or an attempt to use a different device that is not registered or the details of the device are not stored in the server. In one embodiment, the mapping module (170) automatically triggers a security protocol and terminates the online examination to prevent any unauthorized attempts.
[0040] For example, if Mary attempts to use an unregistered mobile phone to access the online examination. The administrator compares the UUID and IP address of the mobile phone to the pre-approved details that are stored. Since the UUID and IP address does not match, the online examination is terminated.
[0041] Further, the administrator should ensure that following system requirements are available for smooth conduct of the online examination. The system (device at the administrator end) requirements includes, but is not limited to the following:
• RAM - Minimum 16 GB.
• Hard Disk - Minimum 250 GB.
• Processor – Minimum 8 Core CPU (Central Processing Unit).
• Operating System – Linux Based (Ubuntu / Centos / Red hat).
• Linux Based Operating System.
• Apache server.
• MySQL server (My Structured Query Language Server).
• PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor) v5.6 or higher.
• Python.
[0042] The screen control module (180) is operatively coupled to the mapping module (170). The screen control module (180) is configured to prevent a screen sharing, currently opened tabs in the user device (240, FIG. 2) by automatically closing one or more tabs during the online examination, thereby ensuring that the user is completely focused on the online examination, with no access to external sources or applications that compromises integrity of the online examination.
[0043] The user device (240, FIG. 2) may include a computing device with a processor and memory configured to store data and execute instructions related to the online examination. These may include exam-software, authentication data, for example, the first image of the user, a location corresponding to the user, in an example, the location may include the location of a respective test center allocated to the corresponding user. In one embodiment, the user device (240, FIG. 2) may include a deep learning model (alternatively referred to as artificial intelligence (AI) model). Specifically, the deep learning model may be a trained AI (artificial intelligence) model utilizing image processing techniques. Specifically, the image processing techniques are utilized to compare the second image with the database constantly throughout the online examination.
[0044] The report module (190) is operatively coupled to the screen control module (180). The report module (190) is configured to generate a plurality of analysis reports. The plurality of analysis reports includes a ranking report (rank of the user based on the online examination), a course trend report (performance of the plurality of users courses wise), and a zone wise report (performance of the plurality of users in the one or more courses zone wise) of the user. The report module (190) is also configured to generate a report of the user in one or more institutes. The report includes the one or more course details, pass and fail percentage of a plurality of users to analyze performance of the one or more institutes.
[0045] The feedback module (200) is operatively coupled to the report module (190). The feedback module (200) is configured to allow the plurality of users to provide a feedback and one or more complaints on performance of the one or more institutes. The feedback module (200) is also configured to allow an expert to view the feedback and the one or more complaints to provide one or more replies to the plurality of users. For example, Mary who has undergone the one or more courses in the MTI’s provide that “assessments are difficult and are not aligned with chapters”. The administrator or the expert reviews the feedback along with the one or more complaints, the expert replies “difficulty of the assessments has been adjusted based on the feedback from the plurality of users”.
[0046] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a system to monitor user actions in an online examination in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The processing subsystem (105) includes an audio verification module (210) and a certification module (220).
[0047] The audio verification module (210) is operatively coupled to the image verification module (160). The audio verification module (210) is configured to capture an audio of the user through a microphone during the online examination. Typically, the audio of the user is captured at regular intervals throughout the online examination to detect any background noise or disturbances at the test center. This process is designed to capture recurring noise patterns at frequent intervals. Further, the audio verification module (210) is also configured to terminate the online examination if the audio includes external interference and prolong for a predefined duration.
[0048] The certification module (220) is operatively coupled to the report module (190). The certification module (220) is configured to generate a course completion certificate to the plurality of users upon qualifying the online examination. Typically, the course completion certificate is valid and enables the user to join and serve aboard merchant navy ships.
[0049] Consider a non-limiting example, wherein the user X enrolls in a course at an MTI upon entering his/her details while enrolling. The details includes, but is not limited to name, image, and Aadhar number. As soon as the user enters the details, a unique identification number is generated for the user X. After completion of the course, the user X prepares to take the online examination at a test center. The input module (140) prompts the user X to enter the unique identification number, and the identity verification module (150) verifies his/her identity by capturing a first image of the user ‘X’ through a web camera and match it with the database, which contains his/her image and Aadhar data with the unique identification number. During the online exam, the image verification module (160) continuously captures a second image of the user X at regular intervals to ensure his/her identity remains consistent. If the second image does not match, the online examination is automatically terminated. Meanwhile, the mapping module (170) allows an administrator to verify the universal unique identifier (UUID) and IP address of the user device (240) against pre-approved details in the database. If the verification fails, the online exam is terminated. To maintain exam integrity, a screen control module (180) automatically closes any unauthorized tabs on the user device (240) to prevent fraudulent activities. Further, the user device (240) constantly captures the audio of the user and in the surrounding environment to identify fraudulent activities. After completion of the online examination, a course completion certificate is generated to the user upon qualifying the online examination. Further, upon completion of the online examination, the report module (190) generates various analysis reports, including performance and trends across courses, as well as rankings of plurality of users in the one or more institutes. The feedback module (200) then allows the user to provide a feedback, experience and any complaints about the one or more courses or the online examination, which an expert reviews and provide responses regarding.
[0050] FIG. 3 is a flow chart representation for conducting a proctored online examination and certification of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The flowchart begins with login of a user to an online examination. Upon logging in, photo, INDOs number, IP address and UUID of the user device is verified throughout the online examination in step (510). Further, the user is allowed to take the online examination by providing login credentials (INDOs number) in the user device in step (520). Further, upon logging in in step (525), the photo of the user, system (user device) and surrounding environment is verified in step (530). Once approved in step (535), the user is allowed to start the online examination in step (540). During the online examination, the audio of the user is captured in step (545) and the face or image of the user is captured for at least 5 times and compared with the image present in the database in step (550), and the user device IP address and UUID is verified in step (555). Once the audio, image of the user, and system security are verified and approved in step (560). The user finishes the exam in step (565) and the online examination is evaluated in step (570).Upon successful evaluation, a result is generated in step (575). Further, a certificate is generated in step (580) and printing the certificate in step (585).
[0051] Referring back to step (535), if not approved in step (535), the online examination terminates in step (590).
[0052] Referring back to step (560), if not approved, the online examination terminates in step (595).
[0053] Referring back to step (540), prior to the online examination, a question paper related to the one or more courses opted by the user is uploaded in step (537).
[0054] FIG. 4 (a) and 4 (b) is a flow chart representation to verify eligibility of a user to an online examination by a marine training institute and the user of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0055] Referring to FIG. 4(a), MTI initiates the process by logging in step (800), a request is transmitted from the MTI institute to a module D in step (805) to fetch one or more details of a plurality of users and exam related process. As the request is received, the one or more details are fetched from a DGS Server in step (810). Further, the DGS server transmits the one or more details to the module D as a response. As the module D receives the one or more details. The one or more details (name, photo, INDOs number) of the plurality of users are verified and eligibility of the plurality of users to the online examination is verified based on the INDOs number. Further, the MTI uploads payment details in step (815) and payment process in step (820) of the plurality of users.
[0056] Referring to FIG. 4 (b), the user (student) initiates the process by logging in by utilizing INDOs number to check eligibility for the online examination in step (830). A request is transmitted to the module D in step (835), the one or more details are fetched by the module D from a DGS Server in step (840). Thereby, the user receives the response from the module D, wherein the response includes eligibility to the online examination. If the user is eligible, the user completes the online examination, and the result is updated in the DGS Server in step (845).
[0057] As used in the paragraph [0055] and [0056], the role of the module D is to perform a plurality of actions automatically without human interventions. The plurality of actions includes, but is not limited to processing the request, data retrieval, and response delivery.
[0058] FIG. 5 is a flow chart representation to verify payment, eligibility and reattempt for the online examination form student-end of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The flowchart begins with student login in step (855). As the student login with INDOs number. The INDOs number is verified with the DGS Server in step 860. Upon validation, the student is allowed to view a student dashboard in step 865, and the student proceeds to pay an amount to the MTI institute in step (870). Upon payment, the student is allowed to proceed with an online examination in step 875 and the student (login credentials) is verified prior to the online examination in step 880. Upon verifying, the user is allowed to proceed with the online examination in step 885. Upon successful completion of the online examination, the user is allowed to view the result in step 890 and the corresponding result is stored in a DGS Governance in step 895.
[0059] Referring back to step 885, if the student fails, the user is allowed to reappear the online examination in step 890. To reappear for the online examination, the user is allowed to pay again to the MTI institute.
[0060] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a computer or a server in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The server (110) includes processor(s) (430), and memory (410) operatively coupled to the bus (420). The processor(s) (430), as used herein, means any type of computational circuit, such as, but not limited to, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a complex instruction set computing microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing microprocessor, a very long instruction word microprocessor, an explicitly parallel instruction computing microprocessor, a digital signal processor, or any other type of processing circuit, or a combination thereof.
[0061] The memory (410) includes several subsystems stored in the form of executable program which instructs the processor (430) to perform the method steps illustrated in FIG. 1. The memory (410) includes a processing subsystem (105) of FIG.1. The processing subsystem (105) includes a plurality of modules. The plurality of modules includes a registration module (130), an input module (140), an identity verification module (150), an image verification module (160), a mapping module (170), a screen control module (180), a report module (190) and a feedback module (200).
[0062] The registration module (130) is configured to enable a plurality of users to register in an institute to enroll for one or more courses by allowing the plurality of users to enter one or more details, wherein the one or more details includes a name, image, and an Aadhar number, wherein the registration module (130) is configured to generate a unique identification number to each of the plurality of users. The input module (140) is operatively coupled to the registration module (130), wherein the input module (140) is configured to receive a unique identification number from a user wherein the user attends an online examination upon completion of the one or more courses. The identity verification module (150) is operatively coupled to the input module (140), wherein the identity verification module (150) is configured to receive a first image of the user though a web camera integrated into a user device to verify the first image with the unique identification number stored in a database wherein the database includes an image, Aadhar data, a unique identification number data, and a passport data of the user. The image verification module (160) operatively coupled to the identity verification module (150), wherein the image verification module (160) is configured to receive a second image of the user at one or more instances during the online examination to compare the second image with the image present in the database to ensure identity of the user remains constant throughout the online examination. The image verification module (160) is also configured to terminate the online examination if verification of the second image fails. The mapping module (170) operatively coupled to the image verification module (160), wherein the mapping module (170) is configured to allow an administrator to map a universal unique identifier, an internet protocol address of the user device to the unique identification number uploaded by the institute, wherein the user device is operated by a user. The mapping module (170) is also configured to verify the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device upon comparing the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device to pre-approved details of the user device uploaded by the institute prior to the online examination to ensure that the user device is authorized and used in the online examination, wherein the pre-approved details includes the universal unique identifier, the internet protocol address of the user device. Further, the mapping module (170) is also configured to terminate the online examination if the verification of the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device fails. The screen control module (180) operatively coupled to the mapping module (170), wherein the screen control module (180) is configured to prevent a screen sharing, currently opened tabs in the user device by automatically closing one or more tabs during the online examination. The report module (190) operatively coupled to the screen control module (180), wherein the report module (190) is configured to generate a plurality of analysis reports, wherein the plurality of analysis reports includes a ranking report, a course trend report, and a zone wise report of the user. The report module (190) is also configured to generate a report of the user in one or more institutes, wherein the report includes the one or more course details, pass and fail percentage of a plurality of users to analyze performance of the one or more institutes. The feedback module (200) operatively coupled to the report module (190), wherein the feedback module (200) is configured to allow the plurality of users to provide a feedback and one or more complaints on performance of the one or more institutes. The feedback module (200) is also configured to allow an expert to view the feedback and the one or more complaints to provide one or more replies to the plurality of users.
[0063] The bus (420) as used herein refers to be internal memory channels or computer network that is used to connect computer components and transfer data between them. The bus (420) includes a serial bus or a parallel bus, wherein the serial bus transmits data in bit-serial format and the parallel bus transmits data across multiple wires. The bus (420) as used herein, may include but not limited to, a system bus, an internal bus, an external bus, an expansion bus, a frontside bus, a backside bus and the like.
[0064] FIG. 7 (a) illustrates a flow chart representing the steps involved in a method to monitor user actions in an online examination in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 (b) illustrates continued steps of the method of FIG. 7 (a) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method (600) includes enabling, by a registration module, a plurality of users to register in an institute to enroll for one or more courses by allowing the plurality of users to enter one or more details, wherein the one or more details includes a name, image, and an Aadhar number, wherein the registration module is configured to generate a unique identification number to each of the plurality of users in step 610. Typically, the unique identification number is Indian National Database of Seafarers (INDoS) number assigned to each of the plurality of users.
[0065] In one embodiment, each institute has a unique number and is verified with an one-time password on registered electronic mail or mobile number.
[0066] The method (600) also includes receiving, by an input module, the unique identification number from a user wherein the user attends an online examination upon completion of the one or more courses in step 620.
[0067] Further, the method (600) includes receiving, by an identity verification module, a first image of the user though a web camera integrated into a user device to verify the first image with the unique identification number stored in a database wherein the database includes an image, Aadhar data, a unique identification number data, and a passport data of the user in step 630.
[0068] Furthermore, the method (600) includes receiving, by an image verification module, a second image of the user at one or more instances during the online examination to compare the second image with the image present in the database to ensure identity of the user remains constant throughout the online examination in step 640.
[0069] Moreover, the method (600) includes terminating, by the image verification module, the online examination if verification of the second image fails in step 650.
[0070] In one embodiment, the user is notified if multiple faces are detected.
[0071] Additionally, the method (600) includes allowing, by a mapping module, an administrator to map a universal unique identifier, an internet protocol address of the user device to the unique identification number uploaded by the institute, wherein the user device is operated by a user in step 660.
[0072] Further, the method (600) includes verifying, by the mapping module, the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device upon comparing the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device to pre-approved details of the user device uploaded by the institute prior to the online examination to ensure that the user device is authorized and used in the online examination, wherein the pre-approved details includes the universal unique identifier, the internet protocol address of the user device in step 670.
[0073] Further, the method (600) includes terminating, by the mapping module, the online examination if the verification of the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device fails in step 680.
[0074] Further, the method (600) also includes preventing, by a screen control module, a screen sharing, currently opened tabs in the user device by automatically closing one or more tabs during the online examination in step 690.
[0075] In one embodiment, the user is notified if he/her tries to open one or more tabs apart from the online examination and the online examination will be terminated automatically upon accessing the one or more tabs.
[0076] Furthermore, the method (600) includes generating, by a report module, a plurality of analysis reports, wherein the plurality of analysis reports includes a ranking report, a course trend report, and a zone wise report of the user in step 700.
[0077] Moreover, the method (600) includes generating, by the report module, a report of the user in one or more institutes, wherein the report includes the one or more course details, pass and fail percentage of a plurality of users to analyze performance of the one or more institutes in step 710.
[0078] In one embodiment, a ranking report of the plurality of users is generated using obtained data (result based on the online examination), wherein the ranking report is filterable based on course, month, and MTIs. The generated ranking report is configured to be accessed and reviewed by authorized entities.
[0079] Further, the method (600) includes allowing, by a feedback module, the plurality of users to provide a feedback and one or more complaints on performance of the one or more institutes in step 720.
[0080] Further, the method (600) also includes allowing, by the feedback module, an expert to view the feedback and the one or more complaints to provide one or more replies to the plurality of users in step 730.
[0081] Various embodiments of the system to monitor user actions in an online examination above provides various benefits upon authenticating the user by identifying identity of the user with an unique identification number, live-image verification with the image present in the database, mapping universal unique identifier, and an internet protocol address of the user device to the pre-approved details uploaded by the institute prior to the online examination, thereby preventing the user to perform any fraudulent activities and terminating the online examination if any one of the above mentioned verification fails. Further, blocking screen sharing automatically to prevent the user from opening external sources or accessing one or more tabs in the user device. Furthermore, the user is allowed to download a certificate only after successfully completing of the online examination. Moreover, result of the plurality of users is generated at each institute or MTIs, thereby making it easier to analyze the performance of the MTIs by analyzing the performance of the each registered user at a specific institute for a specific course. Additionally, the user is allowed to provide a feedback on the one or more institutes, course content and the one or more complaints and allowing an expert to generate a reply to the feedback, thereby the one or more institutes improve their content, training methods, course adjustments.
[0082] The techniques described in this disclosure may be implemented, at least in part, in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. For example, various aspects of the described techniques may be implemented within one or more processors, including one or more microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or any other equivalent integrated or discrete logic circuitry, as well as any combinations of such components. The term “processor” or “processing subsystem” may generally refer to any of the foregoing logic circuitry, alone or in combination with other logic circuitry, or any other equivalent circuitry. A electronic control unit including hardware may also perform one or more of the techniques of this disclosure.
[0083] Such hardware, software, and firmware may be implemented within the same device or within separate devices to support the various techniques described in this disclosure. In addition, any of the described units, modules, or components may be implemented together or separately as discrete but interoperable logic devices. Depiction of different features as modules or units is intended to highlight different functional aspects and does not necessarily imply that such modules or units must be realized by separate hardware, firmware, or software components. Rather, functionality associated with one or more modules or units may be performed by separate hardware, firmware, or software components, or integrated within common or separate hardware, firmware, or software components.
[0084] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the disclosure and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.
[0085] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person skilled in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.
[0086] The figures and the foregoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, the order of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts need to be necessarily performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples.
, Claims:1. A system (100) to monitor user actions in an online examination comprising:
characterized in that,
a processing subsystem (105) hosted on a server (110) wherein the processing subsystem (105) is configured to execute on a network (115) to control bidirectional communications among a plurality of modules comprising:
a registration module (130) configured to enable a plurality of users in an institute to enroll for one or more courses by allowing the plurality of users to enter one or more details, wherein the one or more details comprises a name, image, and an Aadhar number,
wherein the registration module (130) is configured to generate a unique identification number to each of the plurality of users;
an input module (140) operatively coupled to the registration module (130), wherein the input module (140) is configured to receive the unique identification number from a user wherein the user attends an online examination upon completion of the one or more courses;
an identity verification module (150) operatively coupled to the input module (140), wherein the identity verification module (150) is configured to receive a first image of the user though a web camera integrated into a user device to verify the first image with the unique identification number stored in a database wherein the database comprises an image, Aadhar data, a unique identification number data, and a passport data of the user;
an image verification module (160) operatively coupled to the identity verification module (150), wherein the image verification module (160) is configured to:
receive a second image of the user at one or more instances during the online examination to compare the second image with the image present in the database to ensure identity of the user remains constant throughout the online examination; and
terminate the online examination if verification of the second image fails;
a mapping module (170) operatively coupled to the image verification module (160), wherein the mapping module (170) is configured to:
allow an administrator to map a universal unique identifier, an internet protocol address of the user device to the unique identification number uploaded by the institute, wherein the user device is operated by a user;
verify the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device upon comparing the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device to pre-approved details of the user device uploaded by the institute prior to the online examination to ensure that the user device is authorized and used in the online examination, wherein the pre-approved details comprises the universal unique identifier, the internet protocol address of the user device; and
terminate the online examination if the verification of the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device fails;
a screen control module (180) operatively coupled to the mapping module (170), wherein the screen control module (180) is configured to prevent a screen sharing, currently opened tabs in the user device by automatically closing one or more tabs during the online examination;
a report module (190) operatively coupled to the screen control module (180), wherein the report module (190) is configured to:
generate a plurality of analysis reports, wherein the plurality of analysis reports comprises a ranking report, a course trend report, and a zone wise report of the user; and
generate a report of the user in one or more institutes, wherein the report comprises the one or more course details, pass and fail percentage of a plurality of users to analyze performance of the one or more institutes; and
a feedback module (200) operatively coupled to the report module (190), wherein the feedback module (200) is configured to:
allow the plurality of users to provide a feedback and one or more complaints on performance of the one or more institutes; and
allow an expert to view the feedback and the one or more complaints to provide one or more replies to the plurality of users.

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising an audio verification module (210) operatively coupled to the image verification module (160), wherein the audio verification module (210) is configured to:
capture an audio of the user through a microphone during the online examination; and
terminate the online examination if the audio comprises external interference and prolong for a predefined duration.

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of users are allowed to view a result of the online examination instantly after completion.

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a certification module (220) operatively coupled to the report module (190), wherein the certification module (220) is configured to generate a course completion certificate to the plurality of users upon qualifying the online examination.

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the course completion certificate is valid and enables the user to join and serve aboard merchant navy ships.

6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more institutes are allowed to view the result of the plurality of users to select the plurality of users course wise for an marine industry.

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the online examination comprises a plurality of questions, wherein the plurality of questions is adjusted by the administrator.

8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the unique identification number is an Indian National Database of Seafarers.

9. A method (600) to monitor user actions in an online examination comprising:
characterized in that,
enabling, by a registration module, a plurality of users to register in an institute to enroll for one or more courses by allowing the plurality of users to enter one or more details, wherein the one or more details comprises a name, image, and an Aadhar number, wherein the registration module is configured to generate a unique identification number to each of the plurality of users; (610)

receiving, by an input module, a unique identification number from a user wherein the user attends an online examination upon completion of the one or more courses; (620)

receiving, by an identity verification module, a first image of the user though a web camera integrated into a user device to verify the first image with the unique identification number stored in a database wherein the database comprises an image, Aadhar data, a unique identification number data, and a passport data of the user; (630)

receiving, by an image verification module, a second image of the user at one or more instances during the online examination to compare the second image with the image present in the database to ensure identity of the user remains constant throughout the online examination; (640)

terminating, by the image verification module, the online examination if verification of the second image fails; (650)

allowing, by a mapping module, an administrator to map a universal unique identifier, an internet protocol address of the user device to the unique identification number uploaded by the institute, wherein the user device is operated by a user; (660)

verifying, by the mapping module, the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device upon comparing the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device to pre-approved details of the user device uploaded by the institute prior to the online examination to ensure that the user device is authorized and used in the online examination, wherein the pre-approved details comprises the universal unique identifier, the internet protocol address of the user device; (670)
terminating, by the mapping module, the online examination if the verification of the universal unique identifier and the internet protocol address of the user device fails; (680)

preventing, by a screen control module, a screen sharing, currently opened tabs in the user device by automatically closing one or more tabs during the online examination; (690)

generating, by a report module, a plurality of analysis reports, wherein the plurality of analysis reports comprises a ranking report, a course trend report, and a zone wise report of the user; (700)

generating, by the report module, a report of the user in one or more institutes, wherein the report comprises the one or more course details, pass and fail percentage of a plurality of users to analyze performance of the one or more institutes; (710)

allowing, by a feedback module, the plurality of users to provide a feedback and one or more complaints on performance of the one or more institutes; (720) and

allowing, by the feedback module, an expert to view the feedback and the one or more complaints to provide one or more replies to the plurality of users. (730)
Dated this 05th day of March 2025 Signature

Gokul Nataraj E
Patent Agent (IN/PA-5309)
Agent for the Applicant