The ACT Test
Technical Guide
®
For Online Testing
www.act.org
[Type text]
[Type text]
Contact Information
Please direct all questions to ACT Test Administration, 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., central time, Monday–Friday.
Phone ...................................................................................................................................... 800.553.6244 ext. 2800
Email ........................................................................................................................................StateTesting@act.org
Technical Requirements and Technical Guide webpage ........... http://www.act.org/stateanddistrict/onlinetesting
TestNav Online Support ...... https://support.assessment.pearson.com/display/TN/TestNav+8+Online+Support
Updated 1.10.2017
Contents
Overview ..................................................................................................................................................................... 1
In This Section ......................................................................................................................................................... 1
PearsonAccess
next
and TestNav .............................................................................................................................. 1
Technical Requirements .......................................................................................................................................... 1
Requirements for an Online Administration ............................................................................................................. 1
Site Readiness ......................................................................................................................................................... 2
Administrative Monitoring in Each Room ................................................................................................................. 2
Test Content Security .............................................................................................................................................. 2
Disable Automatic Application Launching ................................................................................................................ 2
Disable Dictionary Add-On and Tracking Protection ................................................................................................ 3
Deciding to Use Browser-Based or Installable TestNav .......................................................................................... 3
Other Configuration Dependencies .......................................................................................................................... 4
Installable TestNav Information ................................................................................................................................... 5
In This Section ......................................................................................................................................................... 5
Understanding Managed and Unmanaged Chromebooks ....................................................................................... 5
Understanding App Check with Installable TestNav ................................................................................................ 5
How to Download Installable TestNav on Windows or Mac OS X ........................................................................... 6
How to Download Installable TestNav on Chromebooks ......................................................................................... 7
How to Run an App Check ....................................................................................................................................... 8
How to Sign in to TestNav and Verify Setup ............................................................................................................ 9
Browser-Based TestNav Information ........................................................................................................................ 11
In This Section ....................................................................................................................................................... 11
Description of System Check Processes ............................................................................................................... 11
Benefits of Running System Checks ...................................................................................................................... 11
System Check Requirements ................................................................................................................................ 11
How to Check Your System ................................................................................................................................... 12
How to Check Testing Capacity ............................................................................................................................. 13
How to Start and Verify TestNav ............................................................................................................................ 13
Troubleshooting ..................................................................................................................................................... 14
Java Information ........................................................................................................................................................ 15
In This Section ....................................................................................................................................................... 15
What Java Does ..................................................................................................................................................... 15
How to Install and Enable Java .............................................................................................................................. 15
Java Security Warnings ......................................................................................................................................... 15
How to Eliminate the Java Prompt ......................................................................................................................... 16
Proctor Caching Overview......................................................................................................................................... 17
In This Section ....................................................................................................................................................... 17
Proctor Caching and its Benefits ............................................................................................................................ 17
Process Overview .................................................................................................................................................. 18
Installing ProctorCache Software .............................................................................................................................. 19
In This Section ....................................................................................................................................................... 19
System and Staff Prerequisites .............................................................................................................................. 19
Choosing Proctor Caching Computers .................................................................................................................. 19
How to Install the Software .................................................................................................................................... 20
Updating Files If Using Upstream Proxy Server .................................................................................................... 22
Using Saved Response File (SRF) and Log Files ..................................................................................................... 23
In This Section ....................................................................................................................................................... 23
Understanding SRF and Log Files ......................................................................................................................... 23
Configurations and Primary Save Locations for Installable TestNav—Windows and Mac OS X .......................... 23
Configurations and Primary Save Location for Installable TestNav—Chromebooks ............................................. 23
Setup TestNav with Firefox ESR 45 (32-bit) .......................................................................................................... 24
Default Primary Save Location ........................................................................................................................... 24
Secondary Save Location ...................................................................................................................................... 25
Storing this Information in PearsonAccess
next
........................................................................................................ 25
Configuring Proctor Caching Computers................................................................................................................... 26
In This Section ....................................................................................................................................................... 26
When to Set Defaults ............................................................................................................................................. 26
How to Set Defaults ............................................................................................................................................... 26
Using Default Proctor Cache Settings ................................................................................................................... 27
Freezing the Test Environment .............................................................................................................................. 27
Troubleshooting Proctor Caching .......................................................................................................................... 27
Working with Cached Test Content ........................................................................................................................... 29
In This Section ....................................................................................................................................................... 29
Caching Before Test Day ....................................................................................................................................... 29
How to Precache Test Content .............................................................................................................................. 29
How to Verify the Status of Cached Test Content ................................................................................................. 30
Monitoring ProctorCache Activity During Testing .................................................................................................. 30
How to Purge Cached Test (or Client) Content ..................................................................................................... 31
Overview
Overview
In This Section
This guide will help technical staff configure an organization’s systems for the ACT test taken online.
In this section, you will find information on:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
ne xt
PearsonAccess and TestNav™
technical requirements
requirements for an online administration
site readiness
administrative monitoring in each room
test content security
disabling automatic application launching
deciding to use browser-based or installable TestNav
other configuration dependencies
TM
PearsonAccessnext and TestNav
next
PearsonAccess
is the web application used by testing staff (i.e., test coordinators, room supervisors) to start
and monitor tests and is located at https://testadmin.act.org.
TestNav is the secure test delivery engine used by examinees to take the tests. The browser-based version is
located at https://tn.actonline.act.org and the installable app version can be downloaded at
http://download.testnav.com/.
Technical Requirements
This guide supplements the information found on the technical requirements web page at
http://www.act.org/stateanddistrict/onlinetesting. Technical requirements may change on a quarterly basis.
Requirements for an Online Administration
To test online, your school must meet the following requirements:
•
Your school equipment must meet hardware, software, and other technical requirements defined by ACT, and
performed during site readiness. Site readiness includes performing system checks to ensure technical
requirements are met.
Note: There will not be a technical survey or checkpoints.
•
Your school must follow the proctor caching process as defined by ACT in this guide. Proctor caching is the
process of storing encrypted test content on a local computer. This stored or cached test content is distributed
to the examinee computers during a testing session. It accelerates the delivery of test content to examinees
and reduces the amount of bandwidth required for online testing.
Important! If your school does not meet the requirements during site readiness or proctor caching setup (including
next
the steps to set up TestNav Configurations in PearsonAccess ), ACT will switch your administration from online to
paper.
It is recommended that you use the installable TestNav app instead of the browser-based version. The only
supported web browser is Firefox ESR 45 (32-bit).
1
Overview
Site Readiness
To ensure technical readiness, be prepared to work with your technical coordinator to gather the following
information.
Category
Information You’ll Need to Know
Internet connection
•
•
type of internet connection at your school
internet bandwidth/speed
Devices
•
•
•
•
number of devices available for examinees to use
number of devices to be used for administrative access
types of devices
device owner
Operating system,
processor, memory
•
•
•
operating system for each device
processor for each device
memory for each device
Monitors
•
•
screen resolution for each device
display size of each device
Browsers
•
web browser to be used, if not using TestNav app
Note: The only supported browser for TestNav is Firefox ESR 45 (32-bit).
Your school will need to perform a check on all testing computers to confirm that they meet technical requirements.
Information on this process will be provided in a later section.
Administrative Monitoring in Each Room
next
Each test room must have a separate computer the room supervisor will use to access PearsonAccess , start
and stop test sessions, and monitor testing progress. This computer must pass the technical check and be located
in an area where the room supervisor can see all examinees in the room.
Test Content Security
The ACT must be given using a “locked down” testing application, TestNav. Disabling the lockdown is strictly
prohibited. Computers used for testing must also be configured to prevent examinees from accessing any
application, content, or other service beyond TestNav during testing. To help ensure test security, all software
applications, including Internet browsers, cameras (still and video), screen capture programs (live and recorded,
such as Skype), email, instant messaging, application switching, media players (such as iTunes), and printing must
be closed before testing begins.
Disable Automatic Application Launching
You must configure any applications that may automatically launch on a computer to not launch during testing
sessions. Such launches commonly occur when:
•
•
•
•
•
anti-virus software performs automatic updates
power management software on laptops warns of low batteries
screen savers start or go into sleep mode
email notifications appear
calendar notifications appear
Note: TestNav must be the only application running on the computer during testing. If an application launches
during an examinee’s test session, TestNav will exit the examinee from their test session.
Disable the screen saver. If active, it may cause an error message and result in the need to resume a test.
2
Overview
Disable Dictionary Add-On and Tracking Protection
You must disable both the Dictionary Add-On and Tracking Protection for testing.
Step
Action
1
Click the Open Menu at the top-right of the Firefox page, and click Add Ons.
2
Click Extensions.
3
Find Dictionary Extension, and click Disable.
4
5
Click the Open Menu at the top-right of the Firefox page, again, and click Preferences (Options for
Windows).
Click Privacy.
6
Uncheck Request that sites not track you and Use Tracking Protection in Private Windows.
7
Restart Firefox and resume the testing session.
Deciding to Use Browser-Based or Installable TestNav
You must decide whether you will use browser-based TestNav, installable TestNav, or a combination of both for
testing. There are different requirements and setup instructions for each.
Note: It is highly recommended that you use installable TestNav (instead of the browser-based) for an optimal
testing experience. Only Firefox ESR 45 (32-bit) is compatible with TestNav.
If using …
Which means …
Installable
TestNav
•
•
•
•
Browserbased
TestNav
•
•
•
Then you need to …
You download the TestNav app directly
from the TestNav download site.
The TestNav app must be installed on
Chromebooks.
The TestNav desktop app is available for
installation on Mac or Windows.
You aren’t dependent on other software
such as a browser or Java.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Download the app for each device.
Run App Check on each device.
Verify the app opens on each device.
Run the Desktop App on each device.
Access is completely browser-based for
Windows or Mac computers.
You install and enable Java.
There is no individual system installation
required, beyond confirming the system
requirements and running the
SystemCheck tool on the devices to
validate that TestNav can be launched.
1. Open Firefox ESR 45 (32-bit).
2. Review and implement all other browserspecific requirements.
3. Run SystemCheck on each device.
Note: See the section for Installable TestNav
Information on how to download the app and set
it up.
3
Overview
Other Configuration Dependencies
Use the table below to configure other requirements for TestNav to operate correctly on each device.
If using …
Then …
Installable TestNav
•
•
•
•
allow popups for act.org sites
enable Local File access to home directory
allow for read/write access to the User’s Directory
disable any popup blocking software that may be running
Browser-based TestNav
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
enable a javaw.exe exception in Windows Firewall
allow popups for Pearson sites
allow popups for act.org sites
enable Local File access to home directory
allow for read/write access to the User’s Directory
disable Skype plugins in Windows 7 and Firefox
disable any popup blocking software that may be running
4
Installable TestNav Information
Installable TestNav Information
Note: If the device will use browser-based TestNav instead of installable TestNav, you may disregard this section.
It is highly recommended that you use installable TestNav (instead of the browser-based) for an optimal testing
experience. Only Firefox ESR 45 (32-bit) is compatible with TestNav.
You will want to uninstall and reinstall the TestNav app at the start of every school year to ensure that you have the
most current version. As of August 2016, TestNav app version 1.5.x is required. You will receive an error
message if you do not have the updated version installed. For more information regarding app updates, go to:
https://support.assessment.pearson.com/display/TN/Kiosk+Mode+Test+Setup.
In This Section
In this section, you will find information on:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
process overview of setting up installable TestNav
understanding managed and unmanaged Chromebooks
understanding App Check with installable TestNav
how to download installable TestNav on Windows or Mac OS X
how to download installable TestNav on Chromebooks
how to run an App Check
how to sign in to TestNav and verify TestNav setup
Understanding Managed and Unmanaged Chromebooks
To set up TestNav on Chromebooks, you should first determine whether each Chromebook is managed (using
Chrome device management, you manage your organization’s Chrome devices from a single place) or unmanaged
(typically only used in “bring your own device” settings). To check whether a Chromebook is managed or
unmanaged, see Manage Chrome Devices at
https://support.google.com/chrome/a/answer/1289314?hl=en&ref_topic=2935995 for more details.
Understanding App Check with Installable TestNav
App Check confirms that the device is running a supported operating system (OS) and OS version. After it checks
the OS, App Check confirms that the device is configured to launch TestNav in kiosk mode. You must run App
Check on every device in your testing environment.
5
Installable TestNav Information
How to Download Installable TestNav on Windows or Mac OS X
Follow the steps below to download installable TestNav on Windows or Mac OS X.
Step
Action
1
Go to http://download.testnav.com.
2
Scroll down to the Installable TestNav section.
3
Use the following table to determine your next step.
If the Operating
System is …
Then …
Windows
1. Select Windows .msi installer or .exe installer.
Note: The .msi installer (Microsoft installer) file contains explicit
instructions about installing and removing an application. The
.exe installer file provides a built-in installation wizard. You can
choose program file locations using this type of installation.
2. Select the file you downloaded.
3. The Open File—Security Warning appears and asks if you want
to run the TestNav file. Select Run.
4. If you downloaded the .msi installer, the installer window appears
and automatically installs TestNav.
5. If you downloaded the .exe installer:
a. The Setup—TestNav window appears and asks if you
want to continue installing TestNav. Select Yes.
b. The TestNav Setup Wizard appears. Select Next.
c. The Select Destination Location window appears. By
default, TestNav program files save in C:\Program Files
(x86)\TestNav. You can keep the default setting, or
select Browse to choose another location. Then select
Next.
d. The Select Start Menu Folder window appears. By
default, the setup wizard also stores program shortcuts in
a Pearson folder in the Start menu folder. You can keep
the default setting or select Browse to choose another
location. Then select Next.
e. Select Install.
f. By default, the Launch TestNav checkbox is selected. If
you do not want to immediately launch TestNav, deselect
the checkbox, then select Finish.
Mac OS X
1. Select Mac OS X.
2. Select the file you downloaded. The TestNav install window
appears.
3. Drag the TestNav icon into the Applications folder.
4. Eject the TestNav installer from Devices in the Finder sidebar.
Note: You can also eject it from the Desktop.
4
Go to the section for How to Run an App Check.
5
Go to the section for How to Sign in to TestNav and Verify Setup.
6
Installable TestNav Information
How to Download Installable TestNav on Chromebooks
Follow the steps below to download installable TestNav on Chromebooks.
Step
Action
1
Go to http://download.testnav.com.
2
Scroll down to the Installable TestNav section.
3
Select the Available in the Chrome web store message box. The Chrome web store screen
appears.
4
Select the Add to Chrome button to continue downloading the application.
5
Use the following table to determine your next step.
If the Chromebook
is …
Then …
Managed
1. Log into the Admin console for your domain.
2. From the Admin console, select Device Management >
Chrome devices.
3. Select the icon at the top right of the page for Chrome
device settings.
4. Scroll down to find the User Data section. If Do not erase all
local user data is not currently selected, select it.
5. Above the Kiosk Apps section, you see the Kiosk Settings
section. From the Auto-Launch Kiosk App dropdown list,
select TestNav.
Note: Make sure the devices you want to administer the test
with are under the organizational unit you select for TestNav.
6. Scroll down to Kiosk Apps and select Manage Kiosk
Applications.
7. The Kiosk Apps dialog appears and you should see
TestNav in the Total to Install column.
a. If TestNav does not appear in that column, select
Chrome Web Store, and search for TestNav in the
search field.
b. Select Add. Then select Save.
8. Select Save at the bottom of the page.
Unmanaged
1. Open a new tab in Chrome and enter chrome://extensions
in the address bar, then select Enter.
2. Select the Developer Mode checkbox.
3. Select Add kiosk application.
Note: If you do not see Add kiosk application, you do not
have the correct owner account information. Go back to Step
1 and create a new owner account.
4. Enter the TestNav ID –
mdmkkicfmmkgmpkmkdikhlbggogpicma in the Add
kiosk application box.
5. Select Enter. TestNav appears in the tray under Apps for a
user to open from the shelf.
6. Sign out of the Chromebook.
6
Go to the section for How to Run an App Check.
7
Go to the section for How to Sign in to TestNav and Verify Setup.
7
Installable TestNav Information
How to Run an App Check
Follow the steps below to run an app check on each device.
Step
Action
1
TestNav automatically creates a shortcut on the Desktop. Find the icon on your Desktop and select it
OR from the Start menu, select TestNav.
2
Select or tap the user dropdown menu and select App Check.
3
Enter the Configuration Identifier (optional) that was generated when you set up TestNav
next
Configuration in PearsonAccess . Select Run App Check.
Note: While optional, it is highly recommended you run App Check with Configuration Identifier.
Rerun App Check with the Configuration Identifier once TestNav Configuration is completed.
If you enter an invalid Configuration Identifier, an error message will appear.
8
Installable TestNav Information
Step
Action
If the user does not enter a Configuration Identifier, only Kiosk Mode Pass/Fail and Connectivity
Pass/Fail will be displayed.
Note: Passing systems display a green success message; failing systems display a red failure
message.
If the user does enter a Configuration Identifier, Kiosk Mode Pass/Fail, Connectivity Pass/Fail,
Procter Cache Pass/Fail, and Blacklist Pass/Fail will be displayed.
Note: Passing systems display a green box with “Y”; failing systems display a red box with “N.”
How to Sign in to TestNav and Verify Setup
Follow the steps below to sign in and verify TestNav is set up properly.
Step
1
Action
Use the table below to determine your first step.
If the Operating
System is …
Then …
Windows
TestNav automatically creates a shortcut on the Desktop. Find the icon
on your Desktop and select it OR from the Start menu, select TestNav.
Mac OS X
TestNav automatically creates a shortcut on the Desktop. Find the icon
on your Desktop and select it OR select it from the Applications folder.
9
Installable TestNav Information
Step
Action
Chromebook
1. Power on the Chromebook but do not log in.
2. In the lower left of the screen, select Apps > TestNav to launch
TestNav.
Note: A message appears informing you that you can use
<ctrl><alt>s to exit Chrome OS when you first launch TestNav. This
works only while the message displays.
2
When TestNav opens for the first time on the device, the Customer Selection screen is displayed.
Select The ACT from the list.
3
If the Sign In screen is displayed instead of the Customer Selection screen, verify the customer is
“The ACT.” If it is not, select Choose a different customer from the user dropdown menu in the top
right corner to return to the Customer Selection screen. Select The ACT from the list.
Note: If your test was selected before the test session, you see the Sign In screen rather than the
Customer Selection screen.
4
Sign in using “username” for Username and “password” for Password.
5
Select the Sign In button.
6
Select the Start Test Now button.
7
Select the Start Section button.
8
If the device is configured to run TestNav, you will see a “Congratulations” message. Select the Next
(arrow) button.
9
Select the Submit Final Answers button and select Yes, Submit Final Answers.
10
Close the application.
Note: If using a Chromebook, hold down the Power button.
10
Browser-Based TestNav Information
Browser-Based TestNav Information
Note: If the device will use installable TestNav instead of a browser-based TestNav, you may disregard this section.
In This Section
In this section, you will find information on:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
process overview of setting up browser-based TestNav
description of system check processes
benefits of running system checks
system check requirements
how to check your system
how to check testing capacity
how to start and verify TestNav
troubleshooting
Description of System Check Processes
Use the following table to determine what procedure you should use.
Procedure
Description
How to Check Your
System
•
Validates computers meet the minimum requirements needed to run TestNav
by checking the browser, Java version, and operating system.
How to Check Testing
Capacity
•
Allows you to perform a real-time speed check between the computer and
proctor cache computer.
Note: The proctor cache computer must be installed and running before you can
check the connection speed.
How to Start and Verify
TestNav
•
Provides an assessment of the data transfer speeds and will return an estimate
of the number of simultaneous testers that could be supported.
•
Assesses the readiness of the examinee computer by launching a sample test
in TestNav.
Benefits of Running System Checks
Running system checks helps you assess your technology’s readiness for online testing. The system check:
•
•
•
•
•
•
verifies that computers meet the minimum browser, operating system, and Java requirements
provides bandwidth speed checks to help you plan capacity
estimates the number of examinees that can be tested concurrently
identifies if Java is needed
assesses real-time speed and measures how many testing computers your proctor cache computer can handle
checks connectivity from the server to the proctor cache computer
System Check Requirements
You must follow these requirements for the system check:
•
•
•
•
•
Run it on the same computers that you plan to use for test day.
Run it in the same facility that you plan to use for test day.
Run it on the same day of the week (e.g., Tuesday), that you’re planning for test day.
Run it at approximately the same time in the morning that you’ll be running tests on test day.
To the extent possible, run it simultaneously on the same number of computers that you plan to use for test
day.
11
Browser-Based TestNav Information
How to Check Your System
Take the following steps to perform a system check on a device.
Step
Action
1
If you haven’t already, download Firefox ESR 45 (32-bit) as described under the Software
Requirements, Browser-Based TestNav section on the Technical Requirements webpage at
http://www.act.org/stateanddistrict/onlinetesting.
2
On a computer, go to http://systemcheck.actonline.act.org.
Note: Set up proctor caching prior to running SystemCheck. Refer to the information found in the
Proctor Caching Overview and Installing ProctorCache Software sections of this guide.
3
A Java message will appear. Select the Run button.
4
Select the Check Your System tab, and select the Start button.
•
Passing systems display a green checkmark and “Passed” at the top of the Browser-based
Testing column.
•
Failing systems display a red X next to the failing component.
12
Browser-Based TestNav Information
How to Check Testing Capacity
Take the following steps to check testing capacity before you follow the instructions outlined in How to Start and
Verify TestNav.
Step
1
Action
Go to the Testing Capacity tab.
Note: Testing Capacity results are intended only for wired networks.
2
Select the Start button and review the results for connectivity issues.
Note: If the device passes the check, a green checkmark displays next to Server/Computer.
Note: The proctor cache computer must be installed and running before you can check the connection speed.
How to Start and Verify TestNav
Take the following steps to verify TestNav on each computer.
Step
Action
1
Go to the Check Your System tab.
2
Launch TestNav by going to https://tn.actonline.act.org.
3
Sign in using “username” for Username and “password” for Password.
4
Select the Sign In button.
5
A Java message will appear. Select the Run button.
6
Select the Start Test Now button.
7
Select the Start Section button.
8
If the computer is configured to run TestNav, you will see a “Congratulations” screen. Select the Next
(arrow) button.
9
Select the Submit Final Answers button and select Yes, Submit Final Answers.
Note: SystemCheck errors can occur if you do not properly configure settings.
13
Browser-Based TestNav Information
Troubleshooting
A frequent error that occurs during a system check is a message box with “Web page not available.” If this occurs,
clear the recent history and cache. Take the following steps to clear recent history and cache.
Step
Action
1
Check which browser is being used. You should only be using Firefox ESR 45 (32-bit).
2
Follow these steps for troubleshooting in Firefox.
1. From the Firefox menu (found on the left side of the window), select Options.
2. Select the Privacy icon.
3. Under History, select Never remember history.
4. Select the Advanced icon.
5. Select the Network tab.
6. Under Cached Web Content, select Clear Now.
7. Close the Firefox browser.
8. Reopen Firefox.
3
In the URL address bar, enter http://systemcheck.actonline.act.org and select Enter.
4
If prompted, select Activate and Allow Java to run.
5
If needed, refresh the SystemCheck page. The “TestNav SystemCheck” and a green start button
appears.
14
Java Information
Java Information
Note: If the device will use installable TestNav instead of a browser-based TestNav, you may disregard this section.
In This Section
This section contains information about Java. In this section, you will find information on:
•
•
•
•
what Java does
how to install and enable Java
Java security warnings
how to eliminate the Java prompt
What Java Does
Java is required for running TestNav, SystemCheck, and PearsonAccess
next
.
TestNav opens a Java applet to run full screen, which is required to prevent examinees from accessing other
programs while testing.
How to Install and Enable Java
You must install and configure Java on each testing computer. Download the latest supported version of Java.
To install and enable Java, take the following steps.
Step
Action
1
Go to the Java website at https://www.java.com/en.
2
Follow the instructions on the Java website for the free download.
3
Follow the instructions on the Java website to enable Java at
https://www.java.com/en/download/help/enable_browser.xml.
Java Security Warnings
The first time you launch TestNav or SystemCheck, you must allow the TestNav Java applet to run. One of the
following boxes will appear. Select the Do not show this again… check box, and then select the Run or Allow
button.
15
Java Information
How to Eliminate the Java Prompt
By default, Java will ask permission to run TestNav every time TestNav starts. To stop this behavior and instead
launch tests immediately, you can change a setting in the Java Control Panel. To do so, take the following steps.
Step
1
Action
Use the following table to determine your first step.
If the Operating System is …
Then go to …
Windows
Control Panel, select Java
Mac OS X
System Preferences
2
Select the Advanced tab.
3
Scroll to the “Mixed code” heading.
4
Change the setting shown to Enable – hide warning and run with protections.
5
Select the OK button.
16
Proctor Caching Overview
Proctor Caching Overview
Note: You must install and use ProctorCache software as defined. If you do not, ACT will switch your administration
from online to paper.
Proctor caching is not complete until you reach the “SUCCESS!” message in this document.
In This Section
In this section, technical coordinators will find information on:
•
•
proctor caching and its benefits
the overall proctor caching process
Proctor Caching and its Benefits
Proctor caching is the process of storing encrypted test content on a local computer, using software called
ProctorCache. This stored or cached test content is distributed to the examinee devices during a testing session.
Proctor caching improves the online testing experience for examinees and testing staff by:
•
•
•
allowing examinees to complete the tests even if the Internet connection fails (unless the examinee has not yet
logged in and started testing)
reducing delays caused by network congestion
reducing the amount of bandwidth required for online testing by reducing the download redundancy caused by
each examinee downloading an independent copy of the test.
The following diagram illustrates the technical benefit of using proctor caching.
17
Proctor Caching Overview
Process Overview
The table below provides an overview of the process of installing and using ProctorCache.
Stage
Description
1
Prepare network environment.
2
Identify proctor caching computers.
•
Use SystemCheck to determine the number of proctor caching computers you will need.
•
Verify that identified computers meet minimum system requirements.
3
Install ProctorCache software on all proctor caching computers.
4
Use SystemCheck (browser-based TestNav) or App Check (installable TestNav) to verify connectivity
between testing computers and proctor caching computers.
5
Review the proctor caching setup process with the test coordinator to ensure understanding when
creating test sessions.
6
Add default proctor caching settings to each school in PearsonAccess
7
Create online test sessions in PearsonAccess
next
next
.
.
next
8
Precache the test content from PearsonAccess
beginning of the assessment window.
9
Verify that all test content was successfully cached.
10
Monitor cached content and connections to the proctor caching computers.
11
When testing is complete, purge content from proctor caching computers.
no sooner than two business days before the
18
Installing ProctorCache Software
Installing ProctorCache Software
In This Section
This section provides the instructions for installing the ProctorCache software. The technical coordinator will find
information on:
•
•
•
•
system and staff prerequisites
choosing proctor caching computers
how to install the software
updating files if you’re using an upstream proxy server
System and Staff Prerequisites
Before installing and using ProctorCache, you must meet the following requirements.
The technical coordinator must have:
• full local administrator permissions granted
• working knowledge of your network
next
• a PearsonAccess
user account with a technical coordinator role (test coordinator creates the account)
The school system must have:
• fixed internal IP addresses
• a network connection of 100 Mbps full-duplex or higher (the minimum is 10/100)
• a network set up to use IPv4 DNS (Domain Name System) servers
Note: If you have not made any explicit changes to use only IPv6 for DNS, you should not have any issues. You
will know if this is properly configured because TestNav and proctor cache computers will communicate
properly with one another.
•
TCP Ports open:
o 80 (Internet); 443
o 4480 and 4481 (Local Network)
Note: Using proctor caching does not require special hardware, equipment, or an underlying server-based
operating system.
Choosing Proctor Caching Computers
When choosing proctor caching computers:
• Do not choose the same computers used for testing examinees.
• Choose computers on the same network as the examinees’ testing computers, preferably in the same room.
Note: ProctorCache runs on Windows and Mac OS X only. Chromebooks cannot be used as proctor cache
computers.
19
Installing ProctorCache Software
How to Install the Software
Follow the steps below to install the ProctorCache software.
Step
Action
1
Go to the intended proctor caching computer.
2
Go to http://download.testnav.com.
3
Scroll down to the ProctorCache Installers section.
4
Use the following table to determine your next steps.
If the Operating
System is …
Then …
Windows
1. Select Windows.
2. Open the file you downloaded to open the installer screen. A
security message appears. Select the Run or Yes button as
needed to launch the installer.
3. After the software loads, read the introduction, and then select
the Next button.
Mac OS X
1. Select Mac OS X.
2. Open the install file, and then select the installproctorcache file
to open the installer screen.
3. Open the installproctorcache icon. A security message
appears. Select the Next button to launch the installer.
5
Proxy information displays. The Server Name will default to the computer name. If your site is using a
proxy server, verify that the proxy server information is correct or enter the correct value. Select the
Next button.
6
Accept the default destination folder and select the Next button.
Note: If the computer uses an upstream proxy computer to access the Internet, see Updating Files If
Using Upstream Proxy Server.
20
Installing ProctorCache Software
Step
7
Action
Use the following table to select the location for the ProctorCache icon.
If the Operating System is …
Then …
Windows
Select the location to create the ProctorCache icon(s). Select
the Create icons for all users check box, and then select
the Next button.
Start ProctorCache by selecting the checkbox to start
ProctorCache automatically when install completes.
Select Next.
Mac OS X
Select the Don’t create aliases button, and then select the
Next button.
Note 1: If you want to install in a location other than the default, make sure the location has no
spaces in its name.
Note 2: If the proctor cache computer uses an upstream proxy computer to access the Internet, refer
to the Updating Files If Using Upstream Proxy Server section.
8
Review the pre-installation summary, and then select the Install button. ProctorCache begins
installing.
9
When the software is installed, select the Done button to close the installation.
10
Restart your computer.
11
Go to the Configuring Proctor Caching Computers section.
21
Installing ProctorCache Software
Updating Files If Using Upstream Proxy Server
Proctor cache computers using an upstream proxy computer to access the Internet require additional changes to
the original proctor caching files. Use the appropriate set of instructions below to make those changes.
If the operating system is Windows, follow these instructions.
If the upstream
proxy is …
Authenticated
Then find this file …
And change the value of …
To the new value of …
<install_dir>squid\etc\squid.conf
##cache_peer address parent
port 0
cache_peer <proxy
server IP address>
parent <proxy server
login=user:pass default noquery http11
##never_direct allow all
Unauthenticated
<install_dir>squid\etc\squid.conf
##cache_peer address parent
port 0
login=user:pass default noquery http11
##never_direct allow all
port number> 0
login=<user
ID>:<password> default
no-query http11
never_direct allow all
cache_peer <proxy
server IP address>
parent <proxy
server port number> 0
default no-query http11
never_direct allow all
If the operating system is Mac OS X, follow these instructions.
If the upstream
proxy is …
Authenticated
Then find this file …
And change the value of …
To the new value of …
<install_dir>squid/etc/squid.conf
##cache_peer address parent
port 0
login=user:pass default noquery http11
cache_peer <proxy
server IP address>
parent <proxy server port
number>0 login=<user
ID>:<password> default
no-query http11
never_direct allow all
##never_direct allow all
Unauthenticated
<install_dir>squid/etc/squid.conf
##cache_peer address parent
port 0
login=user:pass default noquery http11
cache_peer <proxy
server IP address>
parent <proxy server port
number> 0 default noquery http11
##never_direct allow all
never_direct allow all
22
Using Saved Response File (SRF) and Log Files
Using Saved Response File (SRF) and Log Files
In This Section
In this section, you will find information on:
•
•
•
•
•
understanding SRF and log files
configurations and primary save locations on Windows and Mac OS X
configurations and primary save location on Chromebooks
secondary save location
next
storing this information in PearsonAccess
Understanding SRF and Log Files
When an examinee responds to a test question, TestNav saves the response in a saved response file (SRF) and
sends these responses to the Pearson server. After the responses successfully save to the server, TestNav deletes
the SRF.
TestNav also writes to a log file during the testing session. These files help to troubleshoot issues, if they occur.
Configurations and Primary Save Locations for Installable TestNav—Windows and Mac OS X
For Windows and Mac OS X, you must:
1. Configure a primary and a secondary save location (entering this information in the TestNav Configurations
next
within PearsonAccess
later).
2. Configure examinee accounts to have complete read, write, and delete access in all save locations.
It is strongly recommended that you configure a shared network folder that can be accessed from all testing
devices as a secondary save location for SRFs to ensure that you do not lose responses, even if an examinee
cannot continue to test on the same device. You must verify that you can access the location from multiple testing
devices.
You cannot configure the log file save location.
The default primary save location is described below.
Operating System
SRF Location
Log File Location
Windows
{USER.HOME}/Pearson/srf/
{USER.HOME}/Pearson/logs/
Mac OS X
{USER.HOME}/Pearson/srf/
{USER.HOME}/Pearson/logs/
Configurations and Primary Save Location for Installable TestNav—Chromebooks
On Chromebooks, the SRF default primary save location is not customizable.
To find files, take these steps.
Step
Action
1
Launch the TestNav app.
2
Focus your cursor in the username or password field.
3
Press <ctrl><shift>z, and the File Viewer box appears.
Note: If the File Viewer does not display, select on the window and then press <ctrl><shift>z again.
23
Using Saved Response File (SRF) and Log Files
4
Plug in a USB memory stick.
5
Select the download button next to the srf and log file(s) you want to download.
6
When the window opens, select the USB memory stick, and select Save.
Setup TestNav with Firefox ESR 45 (32-bit)
TestNav has a default primary SRF save location for all computers and devices. Pearson strongly recommends
setting a secondary save location for SRFs as a backup.
Before testing, refer to your assessment management system user guide to configure TestNav and complete the
following steps.
Step
Action
1
Configure primary and a secondary save location through your assessment management system.
2
Configure student accounts to have complete read, write, and delete access in these save locations.
3
Communicate SRF and log file locations to test proctors.
4
Give proctors access to SRF and log files by either of the following:
•
Grant admin rights to proctors on each testing computer.
•
Instruct proctors to access these files while the student is logged in to the testing computer.
Default Primary Save Location
Operating System
SRF Location
Log File Location
Windows
C:\Users\username\Pearson\firstnamelastname-identifier\srf
<root>\Users\<username>\Pearson\firstnamelastname-identifier\logs
For example: C:\Users\UserA\Pearson\User-A1234\logs
Mac OS X
Macintosh
HD/Users/username/Pearson/SRF/
Users/<username>/Pearson/first name-last
name-identifier/logs
For example: /Users/UserA/Pearson/User-A1234/logs
24
Using Saved Response File (SRF) and Log Files
Secondary Save Location
You can place backup SRFs in a directory on the network file server, on the examinee’s testing device, or on a
secure file transfer protocol (SFTP) site. The following table outlines the pros and cons of each option; however, as
a best practice, we recommend using two options:
1. A primary save location (browser-based and installable TestNav)
2. A secondary save location
Back up Location Options
Pros
Cons
Directory on network computer
Backup file is accessible from other
computers
•
Uses more internal network
bandwidth.
•
Responses save to the network
drive more slowly than to the local
directory. As a result, test items
take more time to load.
•
Does not provide secondary save
for Chromebooks.
Local directory on testing
computer (TestNav client)
SFTP
•
Uses less internal network
bandwidth.
•
Backup file is not accessible from
any other computer.
•
Responses save to local directory
more quickly than to the network
drive. As a result, test items take
less time to load.
•
Does not provide secondary save
for Chromebooks.
Provides secondary save location for
all supported testing computers and
devices.
Requires SFTP site setup.
Note: You should familiarize yourself with default response file backup locations. Some save locations are
configurable. If you set a network file server as a primary or secondary backup location, do not use:
•
•
•
Spaces in the save location path.
A location that requires authentication. If authentication is required, TestNav cannot access the shared location.
A Windows Uniform Naming Convention (UNC) or network path, such as
\\ComputerName\SharedFolder\Resource. It’s recommended that you specify a mapped drive location such as
D:\TopDirectory\NextDirectory\SaveLocation.
Storing this Information in PearsonAccessnext
Once you have determined your SRF locations, you will enter that information when you enter your TestNav
configurations. See Configuring Proctor Caching Computers.
25
Configuring Proctor Caching Computers
Configuring Proctor Caching Computers
In This Section
In this section, you will find information on:
•
•
•
•
when to set defaults
how to set defaults
using default settings
freezing the test environment
When to Set Defaults
You can specify a default proctor caching computer that will automatically be associated with new test sessions.
Important! You should create default proctor caching settings before online test sessions are created. You need to
perform these tasks just one time per test administration, unless a change is required.
How to Set Defaults
Take the following steps to set default proctor cache settings.
Note: You must have the technical coordinator role in PearsonAccess
Step
next
to perform this functionality.
Action
next
1
Log in to PearsonAccess
2
In the upper right hand corner of your screen, make sure your correct test administration and school
are selected. If not, select the correct ones from the dropdowns.
3
Select the Setup icon.
4
Select the TestNav Configurations title from the dropdown.
5
In the Tasks window, under Select Tasks, select the checkbox for the Create / Edit TestNav
Configurations title.
6
Select the Start button.
7
Create a name for your configuration settings and enter it for your organization.
8
Locate the IP address on the proctor caching computer. Use the following table to determine your next
step.
If the Operating System is …
Then locate the IP address by …
Windows
•
opening the Command Prompt
•
typing IPCONFIG for the IP address to display
•
opening System Preferences
•
the IP address will display under Network Settings
Mac OS X
9
at https://testadmin.act.org.
Enter the details of the proctor caching computer that you will use to precache tests, using port 4480 in
the Port field.
Important! Be sure to check the box next to Uses Pearson Precaching Software. If the box is not
checked, you may not receive content correctly and the “Test Status” displayed in ProctorCache would
not be green.
26
Configuring Proctor Caching Computers
Step
Action
10
In the Response File Backup Locations fields, enter the locations determined earlier. See Using
Saved Response File (SRF) and Log Files.
11
Select Test Connection to make sure the configuration works.
Note: If you experience an error with Test Connection, refer to the Troubleshooting Proctor Caching
section.
12
Select the Create button.
Note: Test content is not yet downloaded and precached. Precaching is not performed automatically,
but something you must perform manually. See the section on Working with Cached Test Content.
13
If more than one proctor caching computer will be used, select the Add button and complete the
precaching computer configuration.
Using Default Proctor Cache Settings
Once you have entered default proctor cache settings, the IP address and port you saved will automatically
populate for each test session created when you select the precaching computer during setup. Initial settings can
be changed later.
Note: Proctor cache settings will not automatically populate for test sessions created before proctor caching setup.
SUCCESS! You have successfully set up proctor caching.
Freezing the Test Environment
Once you have configured the testing environment for TestNav, you should freeze the configuration until online
testing is finished. This includes not accepting updates to browsers, Java, etc.
Troubleshooting Proctor Caching
A frequent error that occurs during proctor caching happens with the Test Connection step, where a “Connection
test failed for <IP Address:4480>” message is displayed after clicking on the Test Connection button. If this
occurs, take the following steps for the browser that you are using.
27
Configuring Proctor Caching Computers
If the browser is …
Then …
Chrome
1. Select the shield found in the address bar.
2. Select Load unsafe scripts.
3. Select the Test Connection button again.
4. If successful, a green success message will now be displayed. If this fails, try the
All browsers (alternate steps) below.
Internet Explorer
1. Select the Show all content button at the bottom of the screen.
2. Select the Test Connection button again.
3. If successful, a green success message will now be displayed. If this fails, try the
All browsers (alternate steps) below.
Firefox
1. Select the green lock with the exclamation point icon in address bar.
2. Select the small gray arrow.
3. Select the Disable protection for now button.
4. Select the Test Connection button again.
5. If successful, a green success message will be displayed. If this fails, try the All
browsers (alternate steps) below.
All browsers
(alternate steps)
1. In the address bar, enter: http://ipaddress:4480 (replacing the word “ipaddress”
with the actual IP address of the proctor caching device). A TestNav ProctorCache
screen will appear.
2. Next, in the address bar, enter: http://ipaddress:4481 (replacing the word
“ipaddress” with the same IP address entered above). An ERROR screen will
appear.
3. If both screens appear, proctor caching has been successfully installed.
Note: If you still cannot install proctor caching, contact ACT for assistance.
28
Working with Cached Test Content
Working with Cached Test Content
In This Section
In this section, you will find information on:
•
•
•
•
•
caching before test day
how to precache test content
how to verify the status of cached test content
monitoring ProctorCache activity during testing
how to purge cached test content
Caching Before Test Day
Test content should be precached: 1) after you have created all test sessions and 2) within two business days prior
to the start of the first test. This prevents any delays in administering the test on test day.
How to Precache Test Content
Take the following steps to precache the test content.
Step
Action
1
Turn on the proctor caching computer.
2
Log in to PearsonAccess
3
Select the Testing button.
4
Select the Sessions button. A list of sessions is displayed.
next
at https://testadmin.act.org.
Note: You may need to apply filters to show sessions.
5
Select the sessions you wish to precache.
6
In the Tasks window, under Select Tasks, select the checkbox for the Precaching Test Content
title.
7
Select the Start button.
8
Select the Precache button.
Note: After you’ve precached, you may instead select View Status, which allows you to refresh the
content or reload it.
9
Once content has been cached, you can monitor ProctorCache activity from the Test and Clients
screens of TestNav ProctorCache to verify the status of cached content.
Notes: ProctorCache must be running for content to successfully cache. If the service is stopped, content will not
cache.
29
Working with Cached Test Content
How to Verify the Status of Cached Test Content
Two business days before the test administration, verify test content has been cached. To view and verify that test
content has been cached and is current before the assessment window, take the following steps.
Step
Action
1
Go to the proctor caching computer.
2
Open the shortcut to ProctorCache.
3
Select the Tests tab. A list of all tests will display.
4
Review the caching status of all items in the test form.
Test Status options are as follows:
•
Green OK—content is successfully cached
•
Yellow not loaded—content is not cached
•
Yellow waiting...—content is waiting to be loaded
•
Yellow loading...—content is currently loading
•
Red Failed to load content—caching content failed
•
Red MD5 check invalid—MD5 comparison failed
•
Red MD5 Mismatch—MD5 comparison succeeded, but files did not match
Note: Any content that has not been precached will be cached when the first examinee ‘fetches’ the content from
the TestNav servers. Content cached in this manner will be downloaded on the proctor cache computer that the
examinee is connected to, and will show up as ‘undefined’ in the Contents tab of the proctor caching diagnostics
screen. Once this content has been cached, other examinees will have access to the content as if it were
precached.
Monitoring ProctorCache Activity During Testing
During testing, you can monitor proctor cache activity from the Tests and Clients screens of TestNav ProctorCache.
The Tests tab provides a high level view of the test content downloaded by test form and last cache date. The
Status column indicates whether the test content was successfully cached for the test form. The number of content
entries successfully cached is also displayed with the date the content was last cached. If test content is
successfully cached, a green status icon displays. If test content is not successfully cached, a yellow or red icon
displays.
Note: Each URL represents item content, along with the number of hits, which can provide some indication of the
number of examinees who have accessed the item.
30
Working with Cached Test Content
The Clients tab provides a list of all clients by name, IP address, and platform that have recently requested test
content. The Status column indicates time elapsed since the client was last active.
How to Purge Cached Test (or Client) Content
Take the following steps to purge cached content from a proctor caching computer.
Important! For test security reasons, test content must be purged from the proctor caching computers at the end of
the testing window.
Step
Action
1
Go to a proctor caching computer.
2
Open the shortcut to ProctorCache.
3
Select the Tests (or Clients) tab.
Note: To filter your list, enter search criteria and select a value from the dropdown list. Select the
Clear button to reset your search criteria.
4
Check the box next to the test (or client) to purge.
5
Select the Purge (or Purge Client) button.
6
Enter the following proctor password in the popup window: t35t1n6
7
Repeat these steps on all proctor caching computers.
Note: Do not purge content until the end of the testing window. Purging cached content during a test may impede or
prevent examinees’ access to cached test content.
31
© 2017 by ACT, Inc. All rights reserved.
OPS1741