MXPA98009405A - Method and system for administrating of remotely-proctored secure examination - Google Patents

Abstract

A system for controlling the administration of remotely-proctored secure examination at a remote test station, and a method for administrating examination. The system includes a central station (1), a registration station (2) and a remote testing station (3). The central station (1) includes storage device (13) for storing data, which include test question data and verified biometric data, and a data processor (10), operably connected to the storage device (13), for comparing test taker biometric data with stored verified biometric data. The remote test station (3) includes a data processor (30), a data storage device (31), operably connected to the data processor (30), for storing input data, a biometric measurement device (34) for inputting test taker biometric data to the data processor (30), a display (32) for displaying test question data, an input (33) for inputting test response data to the data processor (30), a recorder (35) for recording proctoring data of a testing event, and a communication link for communicating with the central station (1).

Description

SYSTEM FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF SAFE EX-MEN, PROCESSED IN A REMOTE FORM AND METHODS TO CARRY OUT THEM BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a system for controlling the administration of secure exams procured remotely at a remote test station, and a method for using the system to administer secure exams procured remotely. In the administration of safely procured exams, such as SAT, GRE, GMAT, MCAT, LSAT and other such exams, a lot of time and effort are devoted to ensuring the integrity of the exam. First, the proctor of the test must register properly. It is essential that only those who are qualified register to take the test. Second, it is important to ensure that they are allowed to take the test only to people who are registered. The integrity of any test is of course damaged if the tests are taken by people other than those who are properly registered. It is also important that the test be adequately procured to ensure that cheating is not carried out. Finally, the information of the interrogation of the test must be secure against theft, unauthorized access and alteration.

All previous safety measures require significant human potential or labor expense. Ensuring the integrity of an exam becomes even more problematic when the exam is provided in a number of remote sites. In this way it has been desired for a long time to automate the previous security measures to allow the efficient, cost-effective and secure administration of tests in remote sites. Attempts have been made to achieve some of these goals in related technology areas. The patent of the U.S.A. No. 4,486,180, issued to Riley, describes a system for the administration of driver tests. This patent describes an automated cabin for taking driver tests, but the system is limited to driver tests and is not complete and safe enough to administer a large number of different standardized tests to a large number of remote test sites. The patents of the U.S.A. Nos. 5,195,033 and 5,204,813, both issued to Samph et al., Describe test systems where a central computer is connected to a number of evaluation centers for the administration of the test. However, the systems described in these patents are insufficient to ensure the verification of the trial attorneys, and the security of the data of the test questionnaire.

The patent of the U.S.A. No. 4,764,120, issued to Griffin et al., Describes a student response system that centrally processes student response data from a number of classrooms. However, the system described can not meet the strict requirements of validation, procurement and security of most standardized tests. The patent of the U.S.A. No. 5,218,528, issued to Wise et al., Describes an automated voting system, where voters register and certify, but does not provide a system with sufficient security for test questionnaire data. The present inventors have developed the current state of the art in computer network used to supply computerized standardized tests. Years of development time and millions of test events have shown that - the existing system is a robust and robust test method. The current system involves a software platform that provides an examination of local networks, which are supported worldwide by a centralized master network. The master network downloads the exams to the test centers and collects the complete test files after the exam has been completed by the candidate. This current network uses registration centers that employ registrars that respond to telephone requests of candidates and manually provide personal demographic information, test selection and information ^ .r payment. These registrars program the candidate to a specific test center location in a day and time specific. The test centers are constituted by local networks in which the exam is supplied to the candidate. System administrators employed in the test centers register the programmed candidate and confirm the identity of the candidates by verifying official forms of identification. Once this is complete, the candidate sits or sits in a designated test station, where the administrator will launch the examination process. Administrators procure the exam event to ensure that the candidate does not use 15 extra items to cheat on the exam and are available to respond to any problems that occur. Despite its advantages, the current state of the art nevertheless requires significant labor to register people for examinations, to ensure that only registered persons take exams, to procure exams and to secure the data of the questionnaire. Of the test .

BRIEF COMPENDIUM OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is therefore to take the test delivery system, of the current state of the art and to automate the process in the largest possible extent, thereby eliminating the need for support personnel. or backup at the test site. Another objective of the present invention is to develop a Self-Examination Kiosk, a remote test station that integrates the necessary software and the physical equipment to provide a fully automatic remote testing station, that is, not handled by a human being. . The entire process is then automated in such a way that a candidate who wishes to take an exam can register, schedule and complete the test without need by any personnel on the site. A test center of this type is used to provide virtually any type of computerized test. In accordance with the above objectives, the present inventors have provided a novel system for controlling the administration of secure exams, procured remotely in a remote test station. In its most basic mode, the system comprises (1) a central station and (2) a remote test station. The central station includes (a) storage media for data that includes data from questionnaires of the examination and verified biometric data, and (b) a data processor operatively connected to the storage media, to compare biometric data of the person taking the test with verified, stored biometric data. The remote test station comprises (a) a data processor, (b) data storage means, operatively connected to the data processor, for storing power data, (c) a biometric measuring device for feeding biometric data of the subject test to the processor, (d) display means, to present test question data, (e) a feed to provide test response data to the processor, (f) means to record procurement data of a test event and (g) communication means for receiving the test questionnaire data from the central processor, and communicating the biometric data of the test subject, test response data and proxy data to the central station. According to a preferred embodiment, the proxy data is audio / visual data of the test event. Preferred proxy data include an audio / visual record of (a) feeding biometric data from the test subject and (b) feeding test response data. The proxy data preferably also includes a photograph of the test subject. In yet another mode, the system also has a registration station in addition to the central station and the remote test station.

The registration station comprises: (a) a data processor ^. to process and verify the data of who is registered, (b) storage means to store enough data to verify data of who is registered, and operatively connected to the processor, (c) a biometric measuring device to feed biometric data of the registration subject; and (d) means of communication to the central station for verified test record data, including data ^ l Biometrics verified. The registration station and the test station may already be remote or close to each other. In one embodiment, the recording station of the test station may be combined in one station. In another aspect, the invention provides a method for controlling the administration of secure exams, procured remotely in a remote test station. The method comprises the steps of (a) storing verified biometric data at a central station; (b) store test interrogatory data at the central station; (c) feeding biometric data from the test subject into the remote test station to start a test event; (d) communicating the biometric data of the test subject to the central station and comparing the biometric data of the subject of test with the biometric data verified for this way to check the data of the test subject; (e) communicating test interrogatory data from the central station to the remote test station; (f) storing test response data that is fed in response to the test interrogation data; (g) recording and storing audio / video proxy data of the test event, assigning the identifier to the proxy data; (h) terminate the test event; and (i) validate the test event by reviewing the procurement data for invalidation events. In one embodiment, the method further includes the step of assigning a unique identifier to the test event. In an alternate mode, the proxy-data is evaluated and the test event is validated during the event itself. In this way, the subject or examinee can leave the event with a validated record of the test score. In another preferred embodiment, the test station is a kiosk, or inaccessible self-contained unit without data feed for test registration. A second means of communication to allow an examinee to communicate with the central station can be provided within the kiosk. In one embodiment of the invention, the remote test station may be a kiosk located in a public access facility, allowing a candidate to complete a particular examination without any external assistance. In a modality In addition, the candidate can register and schedule the exam at the kiosk equally. Registration and programming can also be done at a separate registration site. Essential to the registration aspect of the present invention is that the registration results in the storage of biometric data verified at a central site, in order to subsequently ensure that only certain tests are allowed to be taken by appropriately registered persons. The kiosk is preferably a self-sustained unit that is installed in an existing building and is derived to the building's HVAC, telephony and electrical systems. The physical equipment included in the kiosk allows a candidate to provide registration data, personal biometric data and then receive the test or test questionnaire and complete it in a secure and private test station. To minimize any distractions for the candidate, each test station preferably incorporates sound isolation features. In a preferred embodiment, access to each individual test station is controlled electronically by the automated system. Each kiosk is supported remotely by a singular central station. The network uses state-of-the-art telecommunications methods to remotely update and maintain local test networks. Technical support for test registration stations Remote is provided by the central station. The central station can be used to answer any candidate problems while completing an exam. Tests based on eligibility, where only previously selected candidates have the right to take a specific exam, can also be controlled from the central station. The system's remote test station also characterizes a variety of security measures designed to eliminate the possibility of cheating during the testing process. First, there is a device for measuring biometric data. The devices employed in the system according to the present invention include those which record the image of a candidate's fingerprint, retinal image or hand geometry image, as well as devices for analysis and voice recording. The system currently claimed also allows test scores to be validated by the central station. For example, the printed qualification results that contain the photographic image of the candidate can be printed on non-alterable, non-reproducible paper, verified by an Official Notary Public. A unique, seemingly random number produced by a coding algorithm is assigned to the test response data, and seek data as the test is taken to validate the test event. The Verification and invalidation can be done either during the test or later. W In summary, the present invention automates the processes of verifying the test subject, delivering the test, procure and validate the test. It eliminates the need for on-site personnel to support the system and provides a safe and private testing environment. It makes the computerized test much more readily available to potential test candidates and allows them to register and be programmed at a convenient time. It also allows the test proctors to be their employees or qualification organizations, to administer safe, verified tests with a minimum of general expenses and others. The objectives, characteristics and advantages of The present invention will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the Detailed Description of the Preferred Modalities that follow, i when considered in view of the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a block diagram of the physical equipment of the system according to the present invention. Figure 2 is a flowchart of one embodiment of the registration process according to the present invention. Figure 3 is a flow diagram of a mode 25 of the test taking process according to the present invention in which the test event is verified in the course of the same. Figure 4 is a flow chart of the central site activity during recording and testing in the embodiment of Figures 3 and 4. DETAILED DESCRIPTION Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the physical equipment of a system according to the present invention, to control the administration of secure exams, procured remotely at a remote test site. The central station 1 comprises a data processor 10. An exhibitor 11 is provided to allow personnel to verify test administration at remote sites, and the operation of the system in general. A power 12, such as keyboard, is provided to allow control, updating and administration of the system. A printer 14 is provided for those embodiments of the invention where test results are verified after the test event and the verified test results are sent to the test subject of the central station 1. The central station 1 is connected to communicate with a registration site 2. Any appropriate data link can be used to connect the central station 1 to the registration station 2. The registration site 2 includes a data processor 20 connected to a display 24 and a storage device 23. A power supply 25 such as a keypad, card reader, bar code reader, etc., is provided to allow the feeding of data of the registration subject, which is then compared with the stored data 5 to determine whether the registration subject qualifies to register for a particular examination. An optional credit card feeder 27 may be provided to allow payment on credit for the registration. A biometric measuring device 26 is provided to record biometric data fp.0 such as an image of the candidate's fingerprint, a retina image, a voice impression, hand geometry, or other biometric data capable of identifying a biometric data. individual, including photographs or digital images. A printer 28 can advantageously be provided as discussed below, in the registration process, the verified biometric data are transferred to and stored by the central station 1, for later comparison with the biometric data of the test subject, to verify that the test subject is registered properly for a particular exam. The remote test site 3 comprises a data processor 30, connected to be able to communicate with the central station 1. The communication means can be a modem and a telephone line, an ISDN connection, a satellite link or some other appropriate data link. If the connection is If it diffuses or is a data link over the Internet, then software would be necessary for special encoding and decoding to secure the transmitted data. A storage device 31 is provided to store data required for initiation of the test event. A display 32 is provided to present the test questionnaire data received from the central station 1, and a power 33, such as a touch screen, a keyboard, a pen device, or other power supply, etc., are provided. for feeding the registration data and the test response data by the test subject. In one embodiment, wherein the registration data is provided by a registration card, a bar code reader or the like (not shown in Figure 1) are also provided. A biometric measuring device 34 is provided to allow the test subject to provide biometric data of the test subject. As described below, the biometric data of the test subject is communicated to the central station 1 and compared with the verified biometric data stored in the storage device 13 before the test event begins. Finally, the remote site 3 has a means for recording and feeding proxy data 35. In the preferred embodiment, the proxy data comprises an audio / visual record, particularly, a feed register. of the biometric data of the test subject, and the feeding of the test response data during the test event. In one example, a video camera is placed in a corner of a self-sufficient test kiosk and creates an audio / visual record of the entire test event. As the proxy data is used to validate or invalidate a test event, it is discussed below. In short, however, proxy data can be evaluated during the test event, after the test event or both during and after. In a preferred embodiment, the remote test site 3 is a kiosk, or self-supporting structure, designed to be installed in existing public access buildings. The kiosk can be in the lobby of a public building in a shopping center or in an airport or train station. The kiosk in this mode is derived to the electrical, telephone and HVAC systems of the guest installation. The registration station 2 may be remote from or close to the kiosk comprising the remote test station 3. If the registration and testing are performed at the same site, feeding devices must be provided both to provide (1) information required for registration , including for example identification information, demographic information, payment information and test selection; and (2) information for the test event, including for example biometric record data and test response. In the Kiosk mode, the structure is a self-supporting lightweight unit; designed to be installed 5 in open space areas of public access facilities. It is a semi-permanent enclosure that can be assembled in a short time and does not require major modifications of the construction for its guest installation. Power and telephone lines are routed to the unit, as required from the infrastructure of your host installation. If necessary, the host installation can be used to meet any HVAC requirements of the kiosk. An auxiliary HVAC supply can also be used if necessary. If there is a more controlled space, smaller, available, such as a storage unit in a shopping center, a modified unit can be installed that achieves the same level of safety. In the kiosk, the remote test site 3 may comprise a single test station or a plurality of stations. Each of the stations will be provided with a door that remains secure at all times, secured with an electronically controlled lock 36. The gate will be released only after a test subject has successfully completed the registration and has registered using external power supplies to the station. Once that the test subject has entered the test station, the door remains secured with respect to the outside, to give security and privacy to the test subject. The door is not secured from the inside, allowing the candidate to leave at any time, however the insurance will create a signal that will be part of the procurement data. Any unauthorized opening of the door during the test process may, if it is desired to become an invalidating event that would end b would invalidate the test event. Preferably, the kiosk walls comprise a sound absorbing material to provide the test subject with a silent, undisturbed test event. "Noise-white" generators can be implemented if the ambient noise of the host installation is a source of distraction. Speakers located in each test station, led by a common amplifier, provide low level of sound that masks any disturbing noises. The interior of the kiosk consists of a shelf in which the various required feeding devices and display are located. There is shelving that is provided for personal items of the test subject. Appropriate lighting for computerized testing is installed at each test station. A computer, such as a personal computer, including the data processor 30 and the device storage 31, preferably they are kept in an insured compartment within the station. In the preferred embodiment, the device 35 for recording proxy data, is a video camera used to verify and record the test event, it is mounted in a corner of the test station. The audio / visual record of the session is used to document all biometric data and test response data, to record any problems or abnormalities that may occur during the test event, and to prevent the test subject from cheating. In one embodiment, the evaluation of proxy data can be carried out during the test event. In this embodiment, the audio / visual proxy data can be transmitted to central station 1 and presented in the display 11, such that an administrator can see the test event, terminate or invalidate the event if necessary, or respond to any problems during the test event. The audio / visual proxy data is also preferably digitally recorded, transmitted to central station 1 and stored for use in subsequent validation of the test event. The device 35 is also used to capture a portrait of the test candidate. This image will be part of the procurement data and is stored for candidate identification or test validation purposes.

The biometric measuring device 34 is chosen from a wide variety of available devices, including: fingerprint recording devices that capture a digital image of the candidate's fingerprint; retinal image recording devices, voice recording devices, hand geometry recording devices and others. As discussed above, the biometric measuring device 34 can be combined with a camera, such that a digital image or photograph becomes a part • LO of the biometric data. It is convenient to have a power supply device such as a microphone or handset that can be used by the test subject to communicate with the central station 1. In other words, the test subject and the remote attorney can communicate with each other, e.g. a telephone line 100 that connects a pair of handsets 102 and 104. Two-way video communication would also be • convenient in certain cases. The test questionnaire data is stored in the central station 1, for security purposes, and communicate to the test station 3 at an appropriate point in the testing process, as will be discussed below. Central station 1 also stores verified biometric data of registered subjects for use in verification of the test subject and validation of the data of the test subject. The test response data is transmitted to the central station 1 for storage and in one mode, for further validation of the data of the test subject. Online administrators and technicians provide operational and technical support to remote test stations 3 from central station 1, using any communication method (data, voice or two-way video) necessary to accomplish the task. All software updates and system reviews are performed from the central station 1 using the communications lines connecting the central station 1 with the registration station 2 and the remote test station 3. Registration "" Registration for the test now it will be described with reference to the preferred embodiment illustrated in the flow chart of Figure 2. Upon arrival at registration station 2, a registered subject present identification in step 40, which is fed in stage 41 to processor 20 by feeding 25. Other rating information is then requested in step 42 and fed in step 43, depending on the type of test for which the person is to be registered, as power in step 44, either processor 40 or the site of registration, or processor 10 of the central station determine whether the registered is qualified in step 47. If the test is determined as a proof of eligibility type in step 45, the data of the registered subject is communicated to the central station in step 46 before performing step 47. If the subject registration is not qualified, the registration is stopped in step 48. If the test is not an eligibility test, then the processor 20 of the record site 2 instructs that the subject registered in step 47 qualify. If the registered subject is qualified, the - (biometric data feed is requested in stage 49. After the feeding of biometric data, payment is collected in stages 50, 51 and 52. If the payment is by credit card, approval is required in step 51. If the payment is in cash, then the cash or a check is collected in step 52. If the payment collection is confirmed in step 53, then a test event is scheduled in step 54, and the bio data Metric and other personal details of the registered subject are sent to the central station 1 in step 55. Steps 54 and 55 can also be carried out in reverse order, if desired. Programming step 54 will also typically include the feeding of data such as the preferred time and place in which the registered subject wishes to take the test. If the test is programmed to be carried out directly after registration in step 56, 5 then the registration subject goes directly to step 62 of the test event illustrated in Figure 3. If the test is performed at a later date, a registration card is printed ^^ using the printer 28, or region number is expired at step 57 and registration is completed at step 58. The card or registration number can be used in the entry process at the start of the test event illustrated in Figure 3. If no payment is obtained in step 53, the registration in stage 48 is terminated. In a modality where the record 2 ^ pLO is close to, or integrated with test station 2, it is possible to do the test directly after registration at the same site, considering that a station is free for test 3. Other registration processes are foreseen, provided that result in the registration of verified biometric data and the communication of the verified data to the central station 1. As it should be apparent from the flow diagram of the Figure 2, the registration process is totally or at least substantially automated. 20 THE TEST EVENT The test event will be described with reference to the preferred embodiment of Figure 3. The testing process begins, upon arrival of the test subject in the remote test station 3, with a request from the subject of proof to present a printed registration card during the registration process, or provide a registration number. In a preferred embodiment, the request for registration number or registration card during step 60, established on the card is made in a display outside a kiosk in order to open the door. For this purpose, an exhibitor and a card reader are provided outside the kiosk. Otherwise, a signal is given in the display 32 of the remote test site 3 (step 69) and the card information can be provided by the registration subject with the ^? power 33 or a special power supply such as an accord reader, supplied for this purpose. If the card is determined valid in step 61, and the test subject is verified as a valid registered subject, then recording of proxy data begins audio / visual in step 62, and the test subject is asked to provide biometric data in step 63.

^^ For example, the test subject is asked to turn to the video camera to take a photographic image or the test subject is asked to place his / her hand or finger on a convenient recording device. In this mode, if there is an invalidation event while the biometric data is measured (step 64) then the test event is invalidated and the test is stopped. An invalidation event may for example be the presence of two people in the remote test station or an attempt by provide inadequate or fraudulent biometric data. Typically, the types of occurrences or data that would constitute invalidation events will vary depending on the particular test and security levels required. The proxy data may include more than audio / visual data such as a signal from an electronic door lock, etc., in which case an invalidation event may be an open or unlocked door signal. If there is no invalidation event, then the biometric data is communicated to the central station 1 in step 65 and compared in step 66 with verified biometric data that is stored in the storage device 13. If the biometric data for the subject of communicated test correspond to the verified biometric data corresponding to the appropriate registered subject (step 67), then the test questionnaire data is communicated to the remote test site 3. Steps 70, 71 and 73 represent all the test response data by the test subject, in response to the interrogation data presented in the display 32. If at any point during the delivery of the test response data, an invalidation event occurs (step 72) as determined by analysis of the Procure data, then the test event is stopped and / or invalidated _ (step 68). As described above, invalidation events will include opening the door of the kiosk by the applicant, unauthorized use of notes or reference materials or unauthorized communication between the test subject and someone outside the kiosk. After having answered all the questions (step 73) the test subject is given the option to review the questions (step 74) or finish the test (step 76). In step 77, a unique identifier is assigned to the test event to be used in coordinating test response data and procuring data for the test event. Subsequently, the test response data is communicated to the central station 1 in step 78. A record of the test event is then printed for the test subject in step 79. In one embodiment, because the proxy data were used to validate the test event during its execution, a verified test result may be given to the test subject in step 79. In another embodiment, the procurement data is analyzed and the test event is validated after the event, in where the test subject is given only a record of having completed the test event in step 79 and is given a validated test result subsequent to the end of the test in step 80, such as by printing a Official Qualification Report Form.

While not specifically described here, it is also possible to carry out the registration after i W of the test event at the same time or in conjunction with the validation. In a further embodiment, bidirectional communication is provided between the test subject and the central station 1. This bidirectional communication will also be recorded and stored as proxy data. This communication link allows the test subject, for example P_0 request a break in the test event for a break to go to the bathroom, or to communicate technical problems or doubts about the system. In very safety tests, steps 60 to 67 may be required to be repeated after an authorized interruption. 15 A tutorial can also be provided either before or during the test event, to allow the test subject to become familiar with the operation of the system. ) Upon completion of the testing process, data is transmitted back to the central station 1. This data will include some or all of the following: the test response data, audio / visual proxy data, a photographic image of the subject of test, and registration data. If, as described above, the test event is validated during the same event, the results are then • processed and a printed record is produced.

The printed record includes some or all of the following: the personal information and qualification data of the test subject, the photographic image of the test subject as well as any other physical characteristics recorded, the test response data, the approval status / reprobation and the percentage rating. Whether printed at remote station 3 or at central station 1, the records are printed on an Official Rating Report Form, which is printed on specially formulated security paper. This security paper uses safeguards to avoid alteration or duplication by the student. The paper contains a distinctive logo like, water seal and is printed on colored paper. The preference record also contains the identifier assigned the test event and the test data. This preference identifier is an apparently random number produced by a unique algorithm. The algorithm uses feed variables that are derived from, among other things, the registration and rating data, the date and time of the test event, the test that was carried out and the response or qualification data. In this way, the identifier is unique to the test event, and can be used to authenticate a valid rating report, thus preventing the test subject or any plus produce a falsified report.

In a further embodiment, when the report is generated at central station 1, the preliminary validated report is first sent by mail to the test subject. Subsequently, in order to complete the validation of the test and qualification event, the candidate must have the document notarized by an Official Notary of the States United . Instructions in the document inform the Notary that he must first verify that the personal data and the photograph in the document no doubt correspond to the person in question. A list of acceptable forms of identification is included in the qualification report. Once the identity of the test subject has been confirmed, the Notary places the Official Notarization Seal on the document, taking care to overlap part of the seal on the photograph of the test subject. In this mode, the qualification result must then be returned by belt to the central station 1. Once the returned document has been inspected and authenticated by the central station 1, the test is considered fully validated. The results are then retransmitted to the test subject, and the test organization responsible for the test. In order to better understand the interaction of the central station and the remote test / registration sites, the steps that can be carried out at the central station in Figures 2 and 3 are illustrated in Figure 4. Stages of methods Similar in Figure 4 contain similar reference numbers. Data is received from the registration site in step 46, and the central site is determined if the registration subject is qualified in step 49. If necessary, the central site can stop the registration in step 48. The collection of payment is verified in step 53, the test is scheduled in step 54 and the biometric data is received from the registration site in step 55. If the central site determines that the test will now be taken in step 56, then the recording of procurement data for the test event in step 62. If the test is not taken directly after registration, a registration card is printed or a number is issued in step 57. In cases where the test is taken at a time apart from the registration event, the first stage of the central station is to determine whether the card or registration number provided in the test site is valid in step 61. In modalities where the verification is carried out during the event from test, the central station can then determine if there has been a valid event in steps 64, 72 and proceed to stop the test event in step 68, if there has been one. The central station receives, compares and verifies that biometric data in stages 65-67 and if the data correspond, the test data will be communicated in step 69 to the test station. In another contemplated embodiment, the test data already reside in the storage device 31 of the test site 3. In this mode, the test data resident in the storage device 31 will be released in step 69 under instructions from the central station 1. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the test subject is allowed to address interrogations to the central station in step 80 and receive a response in step 81. The central station then receives the test response data in the stage 78 and print a record in step 79. As discussed above, the record can also be printed on the remote test site, if the test is validated during the event. The present system has been illustrated with respect to a few preferred embodiments, but a person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that deletions, additions, substitutions and improvements may be made while remaining within the spirit and scope of the present invention. The scope of the invention is determined only by the appended claims.

Claims (37)

1. CLAIMS 1. A system for controlling the administration of secure exams remotely procured in a remote test station, characterized in that it comprises: (1) a central station that includes (a) a storage device for storing data, including data from test questionnaire, and verified biometric data, and (b) a first data processor, operatively connected to the storage device, for comparing the biometric data of the test subject with the stored biometrics verified data; and (2) a remote test station comprising (a) a second data processor, (b) a data storage device, operatively connected to the second data processor, which stores power data, (c) a device of biometric measurement that generates the biometric data of the test subject, (d) an exhibitor presenting the test questionnaire data, (e) a feed to provide test response data, (f) a recorder device that generates data of procuring a test event, and (g) communication circuits with said central station, wherein the biometric measuring device, the display, the recording device and the communication circuits are operatively coupled with and controlled by the second processor of data .
2. 2. The system in accordance with the claim 1, characterized in that said procurement data comprise • audio / visual data of said test event.
3. 3. The system in accordance with the claim 2, characterized in that said proxy data includes an audio / visual record of (a) feeding said biometric data from the test subject and (b) feeding said test response data.
4. 4. The system in accordance with the claim • 3, characterized in that said proxy data also include a photographic image of a test subject.
5. 5. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that they also comprise a registration station, comprising: (a) a third data processor for 15 process and verify the data of the registration subject; (b) a record storage device that stores sufficient data to verify data of the subject of record and verified test record data, subsequently generated, operatively connected to the third data processor; 20 (c) a biometric measuring device for feeding biometric data of the registration subject in order to generate verified biometric data; and (d) communication means for said verified test record data, including verified biometric data to said central station for 25 save on the storage device.
6. 6. The system according to claim 5, characterized in that said registration station and said test station are in the same place. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that said test station is a self-contained unit, inaccessible without feeding the test registration data. The system according to claim 7, characterized in that said means for recording proxy data includes a video camera disposed within said unit. The system according to claim 7, characterized in that it also comprises dedicated circuits for allowing a test subject to communicate with said central station. 10. The method for controlling the administration of secure exams procured remotely, in a remote test station, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: (a) store biometrics verified at a central station; (b) storing test questionnaire data at said central station; (c) feeding biometric data from the test subject into the remote test station, to start a test event; (d) communicating said biometric data of the test subject at the central station and comparing said biometric data of the test subject with said biometric data. checked in this way to check said data of the test subject; (e) making test station or test data from the central station available to the remote test station; (f) storing the test response data, fed in response to said test questionnaire data; (g) recording and storing audio / video proxy data of said test event; (h) terminate said test event; and (i) validate said test event when reviewing said procurement data for events of • invalidation. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that it also includes the step of assigning a unique identifier to said test event. 12. The method in accordance with the claim 15, characterized in that step (e) comprises communicating said test data from the central station to the remote test station. • The method according to claim 10, characterized in that step (e) comprises releasing data 20 tests that are already in the remote test station. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that step (c) further comprises feeding other data of the registration subject. 15. The method of compliance with the claim 25, characterized in that stage (e) is carried out only if said biometric data of the registration subject is verified in step (d). 16. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that said step (b) of storing said verified biometric data, further comprises the steps of qualifying a registration subject for a particular test, recording biometric data, collecting payment, and transmitting the Biometric data subject of records at the central station for storage as verified biometric data. 17. The method according to claim 16, further comprising the step of issuing a registration card containing the registration data. 18. The method of compliance with the claim 16, characterized in that step (c) can not be performed until said registration data is transmitted to the central station. 19. The method according to the claim 17, characterized in that it further comprises the step of printing a record of said test event including said registration and identifier data. 20. A method for controlling the administration of secure exams procured remotely in a remote test station, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: (a) store biometrics verified at a central station; (b) store test interrogation data in the central Station; (c) feeding biometric data from the test subject into the remote test station to start a test event; (d) communicating said biometric data of the test subject to the central station and comparing said data 5 biometrics of the test subject with said biometric data verified in order to check said biometric data of the test subject; (e) communicating the test interrogation data from the central site to the test site; (f) storing the test response data feed, in response to said test interrogation data; (g) recording and storing audio / video proxy data of the test event, assigning an identifier to said proxy data; (h) reviewing said proxy data during said test event by indications of events of 15 invalidation; e (i) terminate said test event. 21. A method according to claim ^^ 20, characterized in that it further comprises the step of assigning a unique identifier to said test event. 22. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that steps (e) through (i) are carried out only when the biometric data of the test subject is verified in step (d). 23. The method according to claim 21, characterized in that step (a) of storing data 25 biometrics verified further comprises the stages of qualify a registration subject for a particular test, record biometric data, collect payment and transmit the recorded biometric data to the central station for storage as said recorded biometric data. 24. The method of compliance with the claim 23, characterized in that it also comprises the step of issuing a registration card containing registration data. 25. The method of compliance with the claim 24, characterized in that step (c) is not performed until said registration data is fed and transmitted to the central station. 26. The method of compliance with the claim 25, characterized in that it further comprises the step of printing a record of said examination event including said identifier and said registration data. 27. A system for controlling the administration of secure exams, procured remotely in a remote examination station connected to a central station, at least by a communications channel, characterized in that it comprises: (1) the central station comprises data storage means, including examination questionnaire data, verified biometric data, examination response data and proxy data; means for comparing the biometric data of the test subject, generated at the remote station with the verified biometric data and for generating a control signal when the biometric data of the subject of examination correspond to the verified biometric data; and means for downloading the test questionnaire data to the remote examination station, in response to the control signal; and at least one remote examination station comprising means for processing data, means for storing data, for storing data including the data of the examination questionnaire, downloaded from the storage means of the central station; means for measuring the biometric data of the test subject, means for recording the test response data and the procurement data corresponding to an examination event; and means for communicating with the central station and operatively connected to the communication channel for loading the biometric data of the subject of examination to the central station, for downloading the data from the examination questionnaire of the storage means of the central station, when the The biometric data of the test subject correspond to the verified biometric data and to load the examination response data and the procurement data with the storage means of the central station under control of the processing means. 28. A system according to claim 27, characterized in that the proxy data comprises audio / visual data of the examination event. 29. A system according to claim 27, characterized in that the biometric data of the test subject comprises a fingerprint. 30. A system according to claim 27, characterized in that the recording means further comprise means for recording the generation of the biometric data of the subject of examination. 31. A method for controlling a test system administered from a central station and providing secure exams, procured remotely, at a remote examination station, the method is characterized in that it comprises the steps of: storing biometrics verified at the station central; store test questionnaire data at the central station; generate biometric data of the subject of examination in the remote examination station, at the beginning of an examination event; provide the biometric data of the subject of examination to the central station; compare the biometric data of the test subject with the verified biometric data and when the biometric data of the test subject corresponds to the verified biometric data, in the remote examination station make the questionnaire data available from the central station, in this way continue with the exam event. 32. A method according to claim 31, characterized in that the method further comprises the steps record and store audio / video procurement data of the exam event; complete the exam event; and validate the exam event by reviewing the procurement data for invalidation events at the central station. 33. A method for controlling a test system administered from a central station and providing secure exams, procured remotely, in a remote examination station, the method is characterized in that it comprises the steps of: storing biometrics verified in the © Lí central station; store test questionnaire data at the remote examination station; generate biometric data of the test subject in the remote examination station at the start of an examination event; provide the biometric data of the subject of examination to the central station; compare the data 15 biometrics of the test subject with the verified biometric data and when the biometric data of the test subject corresponds to the verified biometric data, transmit key data to release the examination interrogation data stored in the remote examination station, for this 20 way to continue with the exam event. 34. The method according to claim 33, characterized in that the method further comprises the steps of generating procurement data from the examination event; validate the exam event by reviewing the procurement data for 25 invalidation events at the central station; complete the exam event, and immediately issue a validated test report. 35. A method for controlling a test system administered from a central station and providing secure exams, procured remotely, in a remote examination station, the method is characterized in that it comprises the steps of: storing biometrics verified in the station central; store examination questionnaire data in one of the central station and the remote examination station; -generate biometric data of the test subject in the remote examination station at the start of an examination event; provide the biometric data of the subject of examination to the central station; make the test questionnaire data available at the remote examination station so that the examination event is allowed to end, - compare the biometric data of the test subject with the verified biometric data and, when the biometric data of the subject exam does not correspond to the verified biometric data, invalidate the exam event. 36. The method according to claim 35, characterized in that the method further comprises the steps of recording and storing audio / video proxy data of the examination event; Complete the exam event and validate. the exam event when reviewing the procurement data for invalidation events at the central station. 37. The method according to claim, characterized in that all the steps described are performed in the order described. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A system for controlling the administration of secure exams, procured remotely, in a remote examination station and a method for administering exams. The system includes a central station, a registration station and a remote examination station. The central station includes (a) storage device for data, including examination interrogation data and verified biometric data and (b) a data processor, operatively connected to the storage device, for comparing biometric data of the test subject, with the stored biometrics verified. The remote examination station includes (a) a data processor, (b) a data storage device, operatively connected to the data processor, to store power data, (c) a biometric measuring device to feed biometric data from the test subject to the processor, (d) a display for the examination interrogation data, (e) a feed for the test response data to the processor, (f) a recorder for? examination event procurement data and (g) a communication link to communicate with the central station, to receive examination interrogation data from the central station and to communicate biometric data of the subject of examination, examination response data and data of procurement to the central station. The verification of the subject of examination andValidation of the results can be done either before or after the exam event.