June 2015 Vol. 3 No.6

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Kinoti P
Okoyo H

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Original Research Article

Addressing Impersonation Threats in Online Assessment Environment Using Temporal Information and System Interactions

^*1Kinoti Patrick, ²Dr. Sylvester O. McOyowo and ²Dr. Henry O. Okoyo

¹Kenya Methodist University, Faculty of Computing and Informatics
²Maseno University Kenya, Faculty of computing and Informatics

*Corresponding Author’s E-mail: kinotshi@yahoo.com

Accepted June 23, 2015

Abstract

Online learning mediated by ICT is fast growing in popularity worldwide. There is need to consider modes of assessment using ICT tools which are flexible given that candidates can take assessments anywhere and possibly anytime. However, the main challenge when conducting online assessments is the imminent impersonation threat. It is difficult to know if the correct candidate is the one taking the exam or someone else is taking examination on their behalf. Impersonation threats have been classified into three types: Type A, B, C and this study introduces type D. Majority of existing online assessments systems employ one time authentication using passwords but they are prone to impersonation challenges given that the candidate may willingly share this information with another person to take exam on their behalf. More is required to verify the identity and presence of an authenticated student for the whole examination duration. Potential approaches apply continuous scan of biometrics but they are incapable of addressing concealed impersonation or Type D threats. This proposed Temporal Information and System Interaction (TISI) model will not only address all the four type of impersonation but will also minimize the human involvement.

Keyword: Assessment, Impersonation, Verification