Professional Documents
Culture Documents
College
Group Members
No Name ID No Signature
Hawassa, Ethiopia
vi
Acknowledgement
Thanks be to God for His guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support throughout the completion
of this research project. I am deeply grateful to my advisor, Mr. Workinh Eshete, for his
invaluable guidance, mentorship, and unwavering support. His expertise and insights have
significantly contributed to the success of this research. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to
the collective effort and dedication of our team members in bringing this project to fruition. Each
member played a crucial role, contributing their skills and expertise, making this endeavor a
collaborative success. Our gratitude goes out to every individual who dedicated their time and
effort to make this project a reality. Special thanks to our families and friends for their
understanding and encouragement during the challenging phases of this research.
vi
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Acknowledgement............................................................................................................................i
Table of Contents..............................................................................................................................
List of Tables....................................................................................................................................
List of figures....................................................................................................................................i
ACRONYMS....................................................................................................................................
Abstract.............................................................................................................................................i
CHAPTER ONE............................................................................................................................2
1. INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................2
CHAPTER TWO.........................................................................................................................14
3. SYSTEM FEATURES.........................................................................................................21
3.1. INTRODACTION.........................................................................................................21
3.4.1. Introduction............................................................................................................24
CHAPTER FOUR..........................................................................................................................63
4. SYSTEM DESIGN...............................................................................................................63
4.1. Introduction...................................................................................................................63
4.5.1. ER Diagram............................................................................................................73
CHAPTER FIVE...........................................................................................................................81
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5. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION.................................................................81
5.1. Conclusion......................................................................................................................81
5.2. Recommendation...........................................................................................................81
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vi
List of Tables
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Figure 32 Login interface..............................................................................................................60
Figure 33 Home page of Admin....................................................................................................61
Figure 34 User Interface Prototyping.............................................................................................62
Figure 35 Logical View of the Architecture..................................................................................65
Figure 36 Deployment View..........................................................................................................70
Figure 37 Deployment View..........................................................................................................71
Figure 38 ER Diagram...................................................................................................................74
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vi
ACRONYMS
In the evolving landscape of education, the integration of technology has become paramount,
leading to the development of innovative solutions such as online examination systems. This
research explores the design and implementation of an online examination system tailored for
academic institutions, with a focus on enhancing efficiency, accessibility, and overall
examination processes. The study employs a systematic methodology, including data collection,
system analysis, design, and implementation phases.
The online examination system facilitates seamless interactions among students, teachers,
administrators, and the registrar's office. It introduces features for exam creation, student
registration, result management, and course offerings. The system is designed to be user-friendly,
ensuring a positive experience for all stakeholders. The research evaluates the technical,
operational, and economic feasibility of the proposed system, considering factors such as
technology requirements, infrastructure compatibility, and cost-effectiveness.
The study concludes with recommendations for the successful deployment and adoption of the
online examination system in educational institutions. The findings aim to contribute to the
ongoing discourse on technology integration in education, emphasizing the importance of user
acceptance, system efficiency, and economic viability.
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CHAPTER ONE
1. INTRODUCTION
Being online refers to a user, computer, or another device connecting to a network, the Internet,
or another computer that allows communication.
Examinations can take various forms, including written tests, practical assessments, oral
examinations, and performance evaluations. They are designed to gauge a test-taker's
competence, mastery of specific concepts, problem-solving abilities, and critical thinking skills
within a predefined set of parameters.
A system is a group of interacting or interrelated components that form a complex and unified
whole. It can refer to physical or abstract components, such as computer systems or social
systems. A computer system is a combination of hardware, software, and data that work together
to perform various tasks and operations. It includes components such as the central processing
unit (CPU), memory, storage devices, input/output devices, and other peripherals. The software
includes the operating system, applications, and utilities that enable the computer to perform
specific functions.
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methods. This approach revolutionizes the assessment and examination process by leveraging
digital technology to create, deliver, and manage exams.
As a result of this, the result is calculated in less time. It also helps diminishing the need for
paper. Online examination project in PHP is very useful to learn it, according to today’s
requirement Online examination system is significantly important to the educational institution
to prepare the exams, saving the time and effort that is required to check the exam papers and to
prepare the results reports.
Background of Study As we know, today our world is under the control of technology because
of this reason the world is related to each other. Our country is one part of the world but, we are
too late according to this technology as compared as developed countries. A web-based Online
Examination system is a system through which many educational institutions and all users can
benefit from it. Many institutions use various paper material sand pens to process the manual
examination .But in this system is conducted through the website which improves accessibility
for remote candidates.
Today many organizations conduct online examinations worldwide successfully and Issue results
online. There are advantage s and disadvantages in online examinations. The advantage is that it
can be conducted for remote candidates and evaluation of answers automated system, depending
on the nature of the questions and the requirement The disadvantage is there Is no method to
identify whether the exact students take that Exams.
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1.2. Statement of the Problem
Traditional examination method spans thousands of years in our country, and frequent
examination today brings lots of problems as well. Lecturers spend much time in mechanically
marking papers and excessive use of paper contributes large number of environmental problems.
One of the major concerns is ensuring the security and integrity of assessment data within the
online examination system. This involves safeguarding the confidentiality, authenticity, and non-
repudiation of exam content and results. Without robust security measures, there's a risk of data
breaches, unauthorized access, or tampering, which can compromise the validity of assessments.
Online examination systems need to address the issue of ensuring fair and equitable assessment
practices. This includes preventing cheating, plagiarism, and unauthorized assistance during
exams, as well as providing a level playing field for all students, including those with diverse
learning needs or special accommodations.
Technical reliability is crucial for the smooth functioning of online examination systems. The
platform must be robust, capable of handling concurrent assessments without downtime or
performance issues. Furthermore, addressing technical glitches, such as connectivity issues,
system failures, or compatibility problems with various devices, is vital to maintain the integrity
of the assessment process.
Ensuring accessibility for all students, including those with disabilities or unique learning
requirements, remains a challenge. Online examination systems should be designed to
accommodate diverse needs, providing features for assistive technologies, alternative formats,
and accessible interfaces to create an inclusive assessment environment.
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Some students may face challenges related to digital literacy, proficiency with the examination
platform, or access to necessary technology. Bridging the digital divide and ensuring that all
students can effectively navigate and engage with the online examination system is critical.
In some cases, disparities in access to technology, internet connectivity, or resources may hinder
equitable participation in online assessments. Institutions must address these disparities to ensure
that all students have equal opportunities to engage in online examinations.
The user experience and interface design of online examination systems must be intuitive, user-
friendly, and accommodating to different learning styles and preferences. Inadequate design or
usability issues can negatively impact the assessment experience for both students and
administrators.
The general objectives of this project are to develop a web-based examination system for Zion
collage.
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Because of lack of time and resources these project will not include the following
online payment
blind people cannot use.
Cannot handle descriptive questions (essay)
Cannot use camera.
1.6. Significance of the project
After the system will complete, the organization will get the significance from system are the
following: -
Reduce cost-the system save cost for organization that spend on learning materials
preparation and production, duplication, student see information what they need,
transportation, reduce cost paying for human power.
Save time-for organization and student, on student side they will see result
automatically, on evaluation sheet, information searching.
Avoiding mistakes-human error is avoid because the system can correct answer and
calculate the result.
Reduce human power-human power that needed for duplication of paper, payment for
investigator.
Independent of location-student who learns in any branch of college can take exam
everywhere.
Accessibility: Enables students to take exams remotely, fostering inclusivity and
overcoming geographical barriers.
Efficiency: Streamlines the examination process, reducing administrative burden and
saving time for both educators and students.
Security: Implements measures like anti-cheating features, ensuring the integrity of the
assessment process.
Real-time Feedback: Facilitates instant result generation, allowing students to receive
timely feedback on their performance.
Cost-effectiveness: Reduces the need for physical infrastructure, paper, and manual
grading, leading to cost savings.
Customization: Allows for diverse question formats, adaptive testing, and personalized
assessments to cater to different learning styles.
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Data Analysis: Provides valuable data analytics for educators to identify areas of
improvement, track student progress, and enhance teaching strategies.
Environmentally Friendly: Contributes to sustainability by minimizing the use of
paper and reducing the environmental impact of traditional exams.
1.7. Methodology
The methodology employed in the development and implementation of the online examination
system encompasses several key stages, each contributing to the overall success of the project.
The data collection methodology involves systematically gathering information essential for
system development. This includes conducting surveys, interviews, and reviewing existing
documentation to acquire insights into user requirements, expectations, and system
specifications. The gathered data forms the foundation for the subsequent stages of analysis and
design.
1.7.2. System Analysis and Design Methodology (only for software development)
System analysis and design represent pivotal stages in software development. This methodology
involves a comprehensive analysis of the gathered requirements, defining system architecture,
and outlining the specifications. It serves as a blueprint for the subsequent development stages,
guiding the creation of a robust and effective online examination system.
Selecting the appropriate development tools and technologies is crucial for ensuring efficiency
and compatibility during system development. The working environment encompasses the
integrated use of tools such as HTML, CSS, PHP, SQL, and a relational database management
system (RDBMS). This combination provides a robust foundation for creating a dynamic and
responsive online examination system.
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The system implementation phase involves translating the design into a fully functional system.
This includes coding, database creation, and integration of various components. During this
stage, a prototype of the online examination system is developed and refined to meet the
specified requirements and standards.
Testing is an integral part of ensuring the reliability and functionality of the online examination
system. This methodology involves a systematic approach to testing, including unit testing,
integration testing, and user acceptance testing. Once the system passes rigorous testing, it
proceeds to the deployment phase, where it becomes accessible to end-users.
The backup and recovery methodology establishes procedures for regular data backups and
outlines strategies for system recovery in case of unforeseen events or data loss. This ensures the
preservation of critical data and the continuous availability of the online examination system.
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1.8. System Requirement (Only for System Development)
1.8.1. Software Requirement
Version/Platform
NO Software Module Description Requirements
MySQL
8 Workbench Database design and management tool Latest Version
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Version/Platform
NO Software Module Description Requirements
Server
Feasibility study assesses the practicality and viability of the proposed online examination
system. It is conducted to determine if the system is technically, operationally, and economically
feasible.
Technical feasibility scrutinizes the practicality of developing and implementing the proposed
system, examining essential aspects such as technology assessment to evaluate requirements and
capabilities. Additionally, it involves assessing the compatibility of the existing infrastructure to
support the system's technical needs. Ensuring that the necessary software and hardware are
readily available or can be acquired within the project constraints is crucial for the successful
execution of the proposed online examination system. This comprehensive evaluation provides
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insights into the technical viability and sustainability of the system's development and
implementation, laying the foundation for informed decision-making.
Operational feasibility critically examines the practicality of the proposed system's integration
into the day-to-day operations of the institution. An essential aspect is assessing user acceptance,
gauging the willingness of end-users, including students, teachers, and administrators, to adopt
and embrace the new system. Additionally, the evaluation considers the potential impact on
existing operations, scrutinizing how the system might influence current processes and
workflow.
operational feasibility entails a thorough analysis of the training requirements associated with the
system's implementation. It involves determining the need for training sessions and assessing the
feasibility of conducting such sessions for users. Identifying training needs early on ensures that
users are well-equipped to navigate and utilize the system effectively, minimizing disruptions to
regular operations.
operational feasibility addresses the seamless integration of the proposed system into the daily
functioning of the institution, taking into account user acceptance, impact on existing operations,
and the necessity and feasibility of training sessions. This comprehensive assessment contributes
to informed decision-making regarding the viability and success of the proposed online
examination system.
economic feasibility encompasses a thorough examination of the projected costs associated with
the online examination system's development, covering not only initial implementation but also
ongoing maintenance. It involves a meticulous estimation of expenses related to software and
hardware acquisition, training programs, and potential upgrades. The evaluation of the Return on
Investment (ROI) is integral, analyzing the anticipated benefits the system will bring in
comparison to the incurred costs, thus providing valuable insights into the financial gains and
justifiability of the project.
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the assessment considers potential budgetary constraints, ensuring alignment with the allocated
financial resources and constraints. Identifying any financial limitations early in the process
allows for proactive measures to be taken, ensuring that the implementation of the online
examination system remains within feasible financial boundaries. This comprehensive economic
feasibility analysis aids decision-makers in determining the financial sustainability and long-term
viability of the proposed system.
Contingency 20,000
No Task Start Date End Date Novem Decem April May Jun Jul
ber ber
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1 Select Title 1-3-2016 15-3-2016
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CHAPTER TWO
2.1. DESCRIPTIONS OF EXSTING SYSTEM
2.1.1. Introduction of the Existing System
Most institutions, whether educational or not, need an examination system to rigorously test and
evaluate their student's and trainee's outcomes. The existing system at most places is manual but
some places have an online system. A manual system includes manual entry of the details of
persons for their registration. It is sometime difficult for students to reach the exam center when
they live far. A manual system always requires preparing registration forms, question papers and
to print a lot of papers manually.
Calculating how many students are registered and verifying details of all these students manually
is very difficult. This manual activity takes quite a lot of time and money, and it requires
manpower as well. Another factor that should be taken into account, is the possibility of error,
which needs verification and checking of data. In each examination, we have destroyed many
trees. After the examination, the instructor reviews the results.
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Without online examination, it would be very difficult to do these tasks. A limitation of manual
systems is that they are not all personalized and cannot be used for quick reference. The places
which are using the online system face the problem of handling it. To fulfill the needs of the
student and the instructor, there is an administrator required, which is an additional overhead.
User-Centric Design and Accessibility At the core of the Online Examination System is a user-
centric design that prioritizes accessibility and ease of use. Students and educators alike are
welcomed into an intuitive interface that facilitates effortless navigation. The system boasts a
robust user registration and authentication process, ensuring the security and privacy of user
data. This commitment to a user-friendly environment lays the foundation for a positive and
engaging online assessment experience.
Comprehensive Exam Creation and Management One of the hallmarks of the Online
Examination System is its capacity to empower educators in creating, customizing, and
managing exams with unparalleled flexibility. Gone are the limitations of traditional question
formats; the system accommodates a diverse range, from multiple-choice questions to essays,
ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of students' knowledge and skills. The platform's
scalability allows it to cater to various subjects, courses, and examination formats, making it a
versatile tool for educators in different disciplines.
Real-time Monitoring and Proctoring In response to the growing concern for maintaining the
integrity of online assessments, the existing system incorporates advanced monitoring features.
These include real-time webcam monitoring, screen recording, and anti-cheating mechanisms
that actively deter and detect any dishonest behavior. The integration of proctoring tools not only
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upholds the credibility of the examination process but also reassures both educators and students
of the system's commitment to fairness.
Automated Grading and Result Generation Streamlining the evaluation process, the Online
Examination System embraces automated grading, reducing the burden of manual assessment on
educators. This feature not only expedites the grading process but also ensures consistency and
accuracy in evaluating responses. Moreover, the system excels in instantaneous result generation,
providing students with timely feedback on their performance. This immediacy fosters a culture
of continuous improvement and allows educators to adapt their teaching strategies based on real-
time insights.
Collaborative Tools for Enhanced Learning Recognizing the importance of collaboration in the
educational process, the Online Examination System integrates collaborative tools. Discussion
forums, chat options, and virtual classrooms provide avenues for communication between
educators and students during exams. This collaborative approach not only facilitates
clarification of doubts but also fosters a sense of community in the virtual learning environment.
Robust Security Measures In an era marked by increasing cyber threats, the Online Examination
System remains steadfast in its commitment to security. Encryption, secure connections, and
regular system audits safeguard the platform against unauthorized access and potential breaches.
By prioritizing security, the system establishes trust among users, reinforcing its reliability in
handling sensitive examination data.
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The modern computerized system is designed to overcome the drawbacks of the existing system.
The new system has got many advantages than the old manual one. People can register and take
exams very easily from different places. It is more personalized and developed in a way that all
the users can understand all the available options in it without any difficulty. Important matters
are not always locked, and it is accessible easily at the time of urgency. Standard level of
security has been maintained in this system and important data has been kept more secured. It is
easy to understand, more user friendly and any quick entries or modification can be done in this
system whenever needed. It does not need a dedicated Administrator.
An instructor has to register first and login to the system. After login, he has full privilege to the
system. He is a user who is responsible for preparing the questions and its answers and upload
into the database. He can look for the created questions and can select the questions for the tests.
An examinee is a user who has to register first and login to the system to take the exam. After
login, he has the option to start the exam. Every exam will be having a time limit. If an examinee
is not able to finish his exam in the time limit, he will be directed to the result page immediately
after time out.
The administer is who has to login to system to manage the system. Access to exam creation and
updation, Access to exam scheduling : Can schedule exam date and time ,Access to candidate
data : Can assign candidates for particular schedule.
Access to Result section : Can view results data ,After exam is validated and approved by
validator , Exam administrator will able to assign it to candidates ,Result Generation.View Exam
Summary and analytic like total no of candidates appeared for the exam, score analysis.
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2.1.3. Strength of Existing System
Over the years, the digital transformation of education has given rise to online examination
systems, serving as pivotal tools in the assessment and evaluation of student learning. These
systems have garnered significance for their diverse strengths, offering features that promote
efficiency, accessibility, security, and adaptability in the assessment process. This document sets
out to illuminate the various strengths of existing systems, underscoring their impact and value
within the educational landscape.
One of the primary strengths of existing online examination systems lies in their capacity to
streamline and optimize the assessment process. These systems offer flexibility in examination
scheduling, enabling students to participate remotely, while also providing educators with the
ability to create and manage exams electronically. The integration with learning management
systems further heightens the overall efficiency, allowing for seamless synchronization of
assessment data and educational content.
Another significant strength lies in the immediate feedback mechanisms and the automation of
grading processes within these systems. By offering instant performance feedback to students
and educators, these systems promote an environment of continuous improvement and timely
insights into learning outcomes. Additionally, the auto-grading capabilities accelerate the
assessment process, enhancing overall operational efficiency.
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The strengths of existing systems extend to their significant impact on education and learning
outcomes. By providing adaptive and inclusive assessment practices, empowering students to
engage at their convenience, and fostering a conducive digital learning environment, these
systems are instrumental in promoting enhanced student engagement, academic performance,
and digital literacy.
The strengths of existing online examination systems are multifaceted and essential in the
continual evolution of digital assessments. By offering efficiency, security, immediate feedback,
and accessibility, these systems serve as pivotal tools in promoting equitable education and
enhancing student learning outcomes. As technology advances and educational needs evolve,
recognizing and building upon these strengths ensures that these systems continue to exemplify
excellence in modern assessment practices.
The adoption of online examination systems has introduced transformative shifts in education,
providing efficiency, accessibility, and security in the assessment process. However, these
systems are not without their limitations. Understanding and addressing these weaknesses is
essential to improving the overall effectiveness and integrity of online examinations. This
document aims to thoroughly evaluate the weaknesses present within existing systems, ensuring
a comprehensive understanding of potential challenges and areas for growth within digital
assessment platforms.
One of the significant weaknesses in existing online examination systems relates to data security
vulnerabilities. This includes concerns such as data breaches, unauthorized access to assessment
content, and potential risks to student privacy. The need to fortify data encryption, access
controls, and overall data protection measures remains a critical challenge.
In practice, weaknesses pertaining to fairness and anti-cheating measures have been identified.
Current systems may exhibit susceptibility to remote proctoring challenges, difficulty in
preventing unauthorized access to outside resources, and limitations in addressing potential
sources of academic dishonesty. The ability to uphold equitable assessment conditions and
effectively prevent cheating remains a key area for improvement.
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Challenges involving technical reliability and accessibility have been noted within existing
systems. Issues such as intermittent connectivity problems, compatibility limitations across
devices, and access disparities for students across diverse technological environments present
barriers to an equitable assessment experience. These technical limitations require careful
attention to ensure seamless access for all users.
Weaknesses in regulatory compliance and documentation have also been identified. Current
systems may face difficulties in fully adhering to industry regulations, maintaining
comprehensive records for controlled substances, and ensuring strict adherence to data privacy
standards. Stricter compliance measures and comprehensive documentation practices are pivotal
to addressing these weaknesses.
Recognizing and addressing the weaknesses within existing online examination systems is
pivotal to the continual evolution and enhancement of digital assessment platforms. By
thoroughly evaluating areas of vulnerability, such as data security, fairness, technical reliability,
and regulatory compliance, there are opportunities to fortify these systems, ensuring they
exemplify the utmost reliability, integrity, and inclusivity within the educational landscape.
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CHAPTER THREE
3. SYSTEM FEATURES
3.1. INTRODACTION
In the modern landscape of education, the adoption of online examination systems has redefined
the assessment process, offering a myriad of system features designed to enhance the efficiency,
security, and inclusive nature of assessments. These system features encompass a range of
capabilities geared towards enabling educators to create, administer, and assess examinations
while providing students with a seamless and reliable assessment experience.
The system comprises diverse components, each catering to a specific aspect of the examination
process. These components include user management, exam creation and management, online
assessment delivery, auto-grading and immediate feedback, content security, integration with
learning management systems, and accessibility options. Each component plays a crucial role in
facilitating a robust and reliable digital assessment environment.
Users, including students, educators, and administrators, engage with the system through a series
of user interactions and administrative tools. Educators utilize the system to author exams,
manage assessment content, and evaluate student performance. Students access the system to
participate in assessments, receive immediate feedback, and engage with educational content.
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Administrators oversee system access, configurations, and regulatory compliance, ensuring a
cohesive and secure assessment experience.
The system integrates robust security and anti-cheating measures aimed at upholding the
integrity of assessments. These measures include encrypted data transmission, secure
authentication, remote proctoring capabilities, and sophisticated plagiarism detection tools. Such
features are fundamental in preserving the credibility and fairness of online examinations.
An inherent strength of the system lies in its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. By
providing features for assistive technologies, alternative formats, and accessible interfaces, the
system ensures that all students, including those with diverse learning needs, have equal
opportunities to engage in assessments. This commitment to accessibility fosters an inclusive
learning environment and reinforces the equitable nature of assessments.
The introduction to system features provides an initial overview of the core components,
functionalities, and user interactions inherent within the online examination system. The
subsequent sections will delve deeper into these system features, offering detailed insights into
their impact, challenges, and potential areas for improvement.
User Registration:
Students, teachers, and administrators should be able to register for the system.
The registral office should validate user information during registration.
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Question Bank:
The system should have a question bank for storing and managing questions.
Teachers should be able to add, edit, and delete questions in the question bank.
Exam Scheduling:
Automated Grading:
Security:
The system should ensure the security and integrity of exam data.
Prevent unauthorized access and cheating during exams.
Notifications:
Send notifications to users for upcoming exams, results, and system updates.
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3.3. Non-Functional requirements
Performance:
Response Time: The system should respond to user actions within 2 seconds.
Scalability: The system should support a concurrent user load of at least 1000 users.
Reliability:
Availability:
The system should be available 24/7, except during scheduled maintenance periods.
Scheduled maintenance should be communicated to users in advance.
Security:
Scalability:
Usability:
Compatibility:
The system should be compatible with commonly used web browsers (Chrome, Firefox,
Safari, Edge).
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Mobile responsiveness: The system should be accessible and usable on various devices,
including smartphones and tablets.
Maintainability:
It includes the system use case diagrams, the use case descriptions (scenarios), sequence
diagrams, and activity diagrams. After identifying the actors and use cases, the use cases are
developed and textual descriptions (scenarios) are stated. The Sequence diagram depicted based
on the use cases which are developed for the proposed system.
The use case diagrams are usually referred to as behavior diagram used to describe the
actions of all users in a system. All user describe in use case are actors and the
functionality as action of system.
There are 13 main use cases.
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Use case documentations
Use case documentation “check course schedule”
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Use Case ID UC002
2. System verifies eligibility,
3. System presents exam questions,
4. Student answers questions,
5. Student submits exam.
- If the student is not eligible, the system displays a message indicating
ineligibility.
- If the student leaves the exam page without submitting, the system may
Alternative Flows prompt for confirmation or save progress.
- Technical issues during the exam result in progress-saving attempts and
an error message.
Exceptional Flows - Issues with submitting the exam result in an error message.
- Clear indication of eligibility status,
Special
- User-friendly interface for answering questions and submitting the exam,
Requirements
- Measures to handle technical issues and prevent data loss.
Table 6 Use case documentation Tack exam
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Use Case ID UC003
Exceptional Flows - Issues retrieving exam results result in an error message.
Special - Clear and detailed representation of exam results,
Requirements - Clear message for no taken or assessed exams.
Use case documentation “View Results”
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Use Case ID UC005
Use Case Name Create Exam
Actor Teacher
Description Allow teachers to create a new exam for a specific course.
1. Teacher logged in,
Preconditions 2. Assigned as the instructor for the course
Postconditions New exam created and added to the course
1. Teacher selects "Create Exam",
2. System prompts for exam details,
3. Teacher enters details and adds questions,
4. Teacher reviews and confirms creation,
Main Flow 5. System saves the new exam.
Alternative Flows - Teacher cancels the operation, system returns to the main menu.
Exceptional Flows - Issues saving the new exam result in an error message.
- User-friendly interface for creating exams,
Special - Validation for ensuring correct entry of exam details, - Options to add
Requirements various types of questions.
Table 9 Use case documentation “Crate exam”
Use case documentation “Generate Reports”
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Use Case ID UC006
3. User selects a report type,
4. System prompts for parameters,
5. User submits parameters,
6. System generates and displays or exports the report.
Alternative Flows - User cancels the operation, system returns to the main menu.
Exceptional Flows - Issues generating the report result in an error message.
- Variety of report types,
Special - Customization options with parameters and filters,
Requirements - User-friendly presentation and export options for reports.
Table 10 Use case documentation “Generate Reports”
Use case documentation “View Student Feedback”
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Use case documentation “Create account”
5. If valid, system creates the new account and logs in the user,
Exceptional Flows - Technical issues during account creation result in an error message.
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Use Case ID UC008
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Use Case ID UC010
Use Case Name Manage User Accounts
Actor Administrator
Involves the management of user accounts by the administrator in the
Description online examination system.
Preconditions Administrator logged in
User accounts are successfully managed based on the administrator's
Postconditions actions
1. Administrator selects "Manage User Accounts",
2. System displays list of user accounts,
3. Administrator chooses a specific user account to manage,
4. System provides options for account management,
5. Administrator selects desired action and makes changes,
Main Flow 6. System updates user account based on administrator's actions.
- If no user accounts to manage, system notifies the administrator with an
Alternative Flows appropriate message.
Exceptional Flows - Technical issues during account management result in an error message.
Special - Secure and efficient interface for account management,
Requirements - Changes mad
Table 14 Use case documentation “Manage User Accounts”
Use case documentation “notification schedule exam”
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Use Case ID UC-011
1. Department selects the "Notify Scheduled Exam" option from the system
menu.
2. System displays a list of upcoming exams with relevant details.
3. Department selects specific exams or all exams to notify students.
4. Department provides additional instructions or messages to accompany
the notifications.
5. System sends notifications to the registered students for the selected
Main Flow exams.
-If there are no upcoming exams, the system notifies the department and
does not proceed with the notification process.
-If the department cancels the notification process, the system returns to the
main menu.
Alternate Flows
- If there are technical issues preventing the sending of notifications, the
Exception Flows system logs the error and provides feedback to the department.
Special
Requirements The system should have a reliable notification mechanism in place.
Assumptions Students' contact information is accurate and up-to-date in the system.
Dependent on the availability and accuracy of exam schedules and student
Dependencies information in the system.
Table 15 Use case documentation “notification schedule exam”
Use case documentation “Manage Course Offerings”
Use Case ID UC-012
Use Case Name Manage Course Offerings
Actor Department
This use case enables the department to manage and update course offerings
within the system. It involves tasks such as adding new courses, modifying
Description existing course details, and removing courses that are no longer offered.
The department is logged into the system and has appropriate permissions to
Preconditions manage course offerings.
The course offerings in the system are updated according to the department's
Postconditions actions.
Main Flow 1. Department selects the "Manage Course Offerings" option from the
system menu.
2. System displays a list of existing courses with details.
3. Department selects the desired course management action (add, edit,
delete).
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Use Case ID UC-012
4. If adding a new course, department provides details for the new course
(e.g., course code, title, description, etc.).
5. If editing a course, department modifies the relevant details.
6. If deleting a course, department selects the course to be removed.
7. System updates the course offerings based on the department's actions.
- If the department cancels the course management process, the system
returns to the main menu.
Exception Flows
- If there are dependencies (e.g., ongoing classes) for a course marked for
deletion, the system provides a warning to the department and suggests
resolving dependencies before proceeding.
- If there are technical issues preventing the update of course offerings, the
Alternate Flows system logs the error and provides feedback to the department.
Special The system should validate course details to ensure accuracy and
Requirements consistency.
Assumptions The department has the authority to manage course offerings.
Dependencies Dependent on the availability and accuracy of course data in the system.
Table 16 Use case documentation “Manage Course Offerings”
Use case documentation “Logout”
Field Description
Use Case ID UC-013
Name Logout
Description This use case describes the process of a user logging out of the system.
Primary Actor Student, Teacher, Administrator, Registrar Office, Department
Preconditions The user must be logged into the system.
Postconditions The user is successfully logged out of the system.
Main Flow 1. The user, regardless of role, clicks on the "Logout" option.
2. The system logs the user out.
3. The system redirects the user to the login page.
Alternate Flows None
Exceptions None
Priority High
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Field Description
Frequency Multiple times a day
Table 17 Use case documentation “Logout”
3.4.3. Sequence Diagram
The sequence diagram represents the flow of messages in the system and is also termed as
Messages: The messages depict the interaction between the objects and are represented by
Activate Student
Activate ExamSystem
ExamSystem -> UserDatabase:
Verify Credentials
Activate UserDatabase
UserDatabase --> ExamSystem:
Credentials Verified
Activate ExamSystem
ExamSystem ->
ExamDatabase: Retrieve
Exam Questions
Activate ExamDatabase
ExamDatabase -->
ExamSystem: Exam
Questions Retrieved
ExamDatabase -->
ExamSystem: Exam
Answers Saved
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Exam Results sequence diagram.
Activate Student
Activate ExamSystem
ExamSystem ->
ExamResultsDatabase: Retrieve
Exam Results
Activate ExamResultsDatabase
ExamResultsDatabase -->
ExamSystem: Exam Results
Retrieved
Activate Student
Activate ExamSystem
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ExamSystem -> CourseScheduleDatabase: Retrieve Course Schedule
Activate CourseScheduleDatabase
Activate Student
Activate ExamSystem
ExamSystem -> FeedbackDatabase: Save
Feedback
Activate FeedbackDatabase
actor Teacher
participant ExamModule
database QuestionBank
activate ExamModule
ExamModule->QuestionBank:
retrieveQuestions()
activate QuestionBank
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Generate Reports sequence diagram.
actor Administrator
participant ReportModule
database ExamResults
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Figure 9 view Student feedback sequence diagram
create account sequence diagram.
actor User
participant RegistrationModule
database UserData
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deactivate StudentData
actor Administrator
actor Department
participant System
database ExamData
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System --> Department: Notification
deactivate System
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sequence diagram.
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sequence diagram.
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Activity diagram are typically used for business process modeling, for modeling the logic
captured by a single use case or usage scenario, or for modeling the detailed logic of a business
rule. they're used to describe business activities and software systems' functionality. You'll use a
set of specialized symbols—including those for starting, ending, merging, or receiving steps in
the flow—to build an activity diagram.
Stakeholders/Clients have many issues to manage, so it's important to communicate with clarity
and brevity. Activity diagrams help people on the business and development sides of an
organization come together.
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Figure 18 Take exam activity diagram
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Figure 19 View Results activity diagram
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Crate exam activity diagram.
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Generate Reports activity diagram.
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Figure 24 create account activity diagram
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Manage User Accounts activity diagram.
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notification schedule exam activity diagram.
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Manage Course Offerings activity diagram.
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Logout activity diagram.
A class diagram in the Unified Modeling Language (UML) is a type of static structure
diagram that describes the structure of a system by showing the system's classes, their
Upper section: Contains the name of the class. This section is always required,
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Middle section: Contains the attributes of the class. Use this section to describe
the qualities of the class. This is only required when describing a specific instance
of a class.
Bottom section: Includes class operations. Displayed in list format, each operation
takes up its own line. The operations describe how a class interacts with data.
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class diagram
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3.4.5. User Interface Design
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Login interface
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Home page of Admin
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3.4.6. User Interface Prototyping
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CHAPTER FOUR
4. SYSTEM DESIGN
4.1. Introduction
This chapter will introduce for students about the proposed system design specification. It
describes the system at the architectural level, including subsystems and their services, hardware
mapping, data management, access control, global software control structure, and boundary
conditions. The system design specification documents the high-level system design and the low-
level detailed design specifications.
The SDD tracks the necessary information required to effectively define the proposed system
architecture and it should give guidance on the architecture of the system to be developed.
Scope
Here you have to describe your design scope which is actually done in the requirement
engineering. Just in case if you minimize the scope you have to reason out.
Design goals describe the qualities of the system that the developers should consider. These
goals can be inferred (the act or process of deriving logical conclusions from premises known or
assumed to be true) from the nonfunctional requirements.
Performance: The system should respond fast with high throughput, i.e., it should perform
placement processing in a time less than 2 minutes and when users retrieve placement
information online it should respond at least before the session expires.
Dependability: The system should be robust (strong) i.e. it should be able to survive invalid user
inputs, fault tolerant, reliable and available. Since the system stores sensitive data, high emphasis
is given to security to withstand malicious attacks. The system shouldn’t allow non-authorized
users to access students’ personal data or modify.
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Maintenance: - The system should be easily extensible to modify, add new functionality,
portable to different platforms. The code for the system should be easily readable,
understandable and should be easily mapped to specific requirements.
End User Criteria: - The system should have simple and understandable graphical user interface
such as forms and buttons which have descriptive names. It should give reliable response for
each user request at least before the session expires.
Architectural design is the process of defining a structured solution that meets all of the technical
and operational requirements, while optimizing common quality attributes such as performance,
security, and manageability. It involves a series of decisions based on a wide range of factors,
and each of these decisions can have considerable impact on the quality, performance,
maintainability, and overall success of your system.
Software architecture encompasses the set of significant decisions about the organization of a
software system including the selection of the structural elements and their interfaces by which
the system is composed; behavior as specified in collaboration among those elements;
composition of System Design is the process of defining the architecture, modules, interfaces,
and data for a system to satisfy specified requirements.
The system design specification should define a virtual machine that implements all
requirements in the analysis, and it should provide a foundational guide for further
implementation details all the way to an executable solution.
these structural and behavioral elements into larger subsystems; and an architectural style that
guides this organization. Software architecture also involves functionality, usability, resilience,
performance, reuse, comprehensibility, economic and technology constraints, tradeoffs and
aesthetic concerns.
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4.4.1. Logical View of the Architecture
Here you have to describe the most important classes, their organization in service packages and
subsystems, and the organization of these subsystems into layers. Also describes the most
important use-case realizations, for example, the dynamic aspects of the architecture. Design
level class diagrams have to be included also to illustrate the relationships between
architecturally significant classes, subsystems, packages and layers.
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Presentation Layer:
Responsibility: This layer is responsible for the user interface and user interaction. It
encompasses the components that users directly interact with.
Components:
User Interface Framework: The underlying framework (e.g., React, Angular) that facilitates
the development of the user interface.
Application Layer:
Responsibility: The application layer implements the core application logic and business rules. It
interprets user input, processes requests, and coordinates the execution of business rules.
Components:
Controllers: Handle user input, orchestrate business logic, and interact with the application
services.
View Models: Data structures used by the presentation layer to represent information.
Responsibility: This layer contains business services that encapsulate specific business
functionalities. It abstracts complex business operations and provides a higher-level interface for
the application layer.
Components:
Course Management Service: Handles tasks related to course management, enrollment, and
teacher assignment.
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Notification Service: Sends notifications about events, deadlines, and announcements.
Middleware Layer:z
Responsibility: The middleware layer acts as a bridge between different parts of the system,
handling communication and integration. It often includes services that provide cross-cutting
concerns like authentication, logging, and messaging.
Components:
Infrastructure Layer:
Responsibility: The infrastructure layer manages the technical infrastructure and external
dependencies of the system. It interacts with databases, external APIs, and services.
Components:
DBMS (Database Management System): Stores and retrieves data from the database.
External APIs and Services: Interfaces with external systems and third-party services.
Logging and Monitoring: Implements logging and monitoring mechanisms for tracking system
behavior.
Base Reuse
The Base Reuse package includes classes to support list functions and patterns.
These layers work together to provide a modular, scalable, and maintainable architecture for the
online examination system. Each layer has a distinct set of responsibilities, promoting separation
of concerns and ease of development, maintenance, and scalability.
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4.4.2. Process View
The Process View of the online examination system involves an in-depth exploration of the
dynamic aspects governing the system's functionality during runtime. Various crucial processes
contribute to the seamless operation of the system, beginning with the user registration process.
This process delineates the steps through which students, teachers, and administrators register for
the system, encompassing validation and verification measures to ensure accuracy and security.
Another significant process is the creation of exams, where teachers and administrators interact
with the system to define and set up exam parameters. This includes specifying details such as
question formats, time limits, and any other relevant parameters. The process of taking an exam
is also critical, involving the initiation and completion of exams by students. The interaction
between students, the exam module, and the underlying database is essential in ensuring a
smooth examination experience.
Results generation constitutes another vital process, outlining the steps involved in calculating
and processing exam results. The system must efficiently manage data to provide accurate and
timely feedback to students. Additionally, the user authentication and authorization process is
fundamental to the system's security, detailing how the system verifies user identities and grants
appropriate access levels based on roles.
If a feedback system is implemented, the process of feedback submission becomes integral. This
involves outlining how users can submit feedback and the subsequent procedures for processing
and storing this valuable input. Through comprehensive descriptions and possibly visual aids like
flowcharts, the Process View provides a dynamic understanding of the online examination
system's functionality during its operational phase.
The software going to be developed is allowed by UML model. UML deployment diagram show
physical view of system, taking software into real world by showing how software gets assigned
to hardware and how communicates.
Deployment diagrams show the configuration of run-time processing elements and the software
components, processes, and objects that live on them. Software component instances represent
run-time manifestations of code unit.
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The purpose of deployment diagrams can be described as:
Visualize hardware topology of a system.
Describe the hardware components used to deploy software components.
Describe runtime processing node
We use deployment diagrams to visualize the topology of the physical components of a
system where the software components are deployed. The following deployment diagram
four components like web browser, database server, application server and web server.
Web Browser:
Consider your web browser as a magical book that can open any story (web page) on the
internet. You tell the browser where you want to go, and it transports you to that place. It
understands different languages (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) and makes the online experience
enjoyable.
Web Server:
Imagine a waiter at a restaurant. When you, as a customer (web browser), ask for a menu (web
page), the waiter (web server) takes your request to the kitchen (application server). The kitchen
prepares the dish (web content), and the waiter brings it back to your table. The waiter manages
the flow of requests and deliveries.
Application Server:
What it's like: Think of an application server as the chef in the kitchen. When the waiter (web
server) brings an order (request for a web application), the chef (application server) follows a
recipe (business logic) to prepare the dish (application functionality). The chef takes care of
cooking and making sure everything is just right.
Database Server:
What it's like: Picture a library where information is stored in organized sections. The librarian
(database server) manages the books (data) and helps you find what you're looking for. When
you need a specific piece of information (query), the librarian retrieves it from the shelves
(database) and hands it to you.
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These components work together like a team to make sure your online experience is smooth and
enjoyable. The waiter takes your order, the chef prepares the dish, the librarian finds the
information, and your magical book (web browser) brings it all to you!
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Figure 37 Deployment View
A well-designed database gives users access to essential information. By the following database
design principles, you can design a database that performs well and adapts to future needs.
A well-structured database
▪ Gather and analyze the system requirements to identify data entities, relationships, and
constraints
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▪ Determine the main entities (objects) in the system and define the relationships between
them.
▪ Develop an ERD to visually represent the entities, attributes, and relationships. Use
notation like entities, attributes, relationships, and cardinality.
▪ Apply normalization techniques to eliminate data redundancy and improve data integrity.
▪ Review the data model with stakeholders to ensure it accurately represents business
requirements.
Designing an efficient, useful database is very crucial in software development. To achieve that
you have include the following phases:
Understanding the purpose of your database will inform your choices throughout the design
process. Make sure you consider the database from every perspective. For instance, if you were
making a database for a student course registration system, you’d want to consider the ways in
which both students and instructors would need to access the data.
Here are some ways to gather information before creating the database:
Explore any existing data systems (including physical and digital files)
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Organizing data into tables
The next step is to lay out a visual representation of your database. Within a database, related
data are grouped into tables, each of which consists of rows (also called tuples) and columns,
like a spreadsheet. To convert your lists of data into tables, start by creating a table for each type
of entity, such as students, courses, teacher, and Registrar office, Department, Admin, Exam
paper, question, exam, results and registration. Each row of a table is called a record. Records
include data about something or someone, such as a particular student. By contrast, columns
(also known as fields or attributes) contain a single type of information that appears in each
record, such as the addresses of all the teachers listed in the table.
4.5.1. ER Diagram
The relationships among these entities are illustrated through connecting lines, showcasing how
they interconnect and depend on one another. For instance, students are associated with courses,
exams are linked to specific courses, and questions are part of particular exams. Teachers are
shown in relation to the courses they instruct. In essence, the ER diagram serves as a visual guide
to understand the structure and connections within the database of the online examination
system, aiding in the efficient organization and retrieval of information.
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Figure 38 ER Diagram
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4.5.2. Relational Mapping & Database Normalization
4.5.2.1. Relational Mapping
Student Table:
Field StudentID (PK) FirstName LastName Email DepartmentID (FK)
Teacher Table:
Field TeacherID (PK) FirstName LastName Email DepartmentID (FK)
Course Table:
Field CourseID (PK) CourseName
Exam Table:
Field ExamID (PK) CourseID (FK) StartTime EndTime TeacherID (FK)
Question Table:
Field QuestionID (PK) Text ExamID (FK)
Admin Table:
Field AdminID (PK) FirstName LastName Email
Registral Office Table:
Field RegistralOfficeID (PK) OfficeName ContactNumber Email
Department Table:
Field DepartmentID (PK) DepartmentName HeadOfDepartment
Result Table:
Field ResultID (PK) StudentID (FK) ExamID (FK) Marks
Exam Paper Table:
Field ExamPaperID (PK) QuestionID (FK) Marks
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4.5.2.2. Database Normalization
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The web-based online examination system will have the following tables along with their
attributes.
Student table
411, Accounting
ACC_FIN , Cost
Accounting
432
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ng
Stud_table
Table 20 Stud
Teach Teacher Course code Course name table
er_id _name
Stud_table
Table 22 Stud_table
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Teache_table
Teacher_id Teacher_name
T001 Samuel
T002, Helen
T003 Alex
T018, Beki,
T020 marita
T022 John
Table 23 Teache_table
Course_cona table
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CHAPTER FIVE
5. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
5.1. Conclusion
As we wrap up our exploration into the realm of online examination systems, it's clear that the
landscape of education is evolving, and technology is at the forefront of this transformation. In
our journey through this research, we've uncovered the inner workings of online exams, from the
challenges they pose to the promising solutions they bring. It's not just about digitalizing tests;
it's about reimagining how we assess knowledge and skills in a rapidly changing world.
We've seen the potential of our proposed system, envisioning a future where education becomes
more accessible, assessments more dynamic, and the overall learning experience more engaging.
Yet, it's important to recognize that no system is perfect. There are hurdles to overcome, lessons
to learn, and possibilities to explore. Our hope is that this work sparks further discussions,
inspires innovations, and serves as a guide for educators and technologists alike. Together, we
can continue shaping the future of education, making it more inclusive, adaptable, and
ultimately, enriching for learners around the globe.
So, as we conclude this chapter, let's not see it as an end but rather as a new beginning—a
launchpad for the next wave of advancements in the ever-evolving landscape of education.
5.2. Recommendation
References
2. Dennis, A., Wixom, B. H., & Tegarden, D. (2015). Systems Analysis and Design: An
Object-Oriented Approach with UML. Wiley.
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3. Hoffer, J. A., Prescott, M. B., & McFadden, F. R. (2007). Modern Database
Management. Pearson.
4. Kendall, K. E., & Kendall, J. E. (2019). Systems Analysis and Design: An Applied
Approach. Cengage Learning.
5. Laudon, K. C., & Laudon, J. P. (2016). Management Information Systems: Managing the
Digital Firm. Pearson.
9. SRS for Online Examination System. (2017). Retrieved from [Source Link]
10. UML Distilled: A Brief Guide to the Standard Object Modeling Language (3rd ed.).
(2003). Addison-Wesley.
Appendix
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