ARBA MINCH UNIVERSITY

Faculty of Computing And SE

Department of Information
Technology
Documentation For Online
Examination System
Group members
Name Id
1, Anuwar Addisu …………………………NSR/067/14

2, Ibrahim Seyoum ………………………...NSR/1694/14

3, Surafel Yirga …………………………….NSR/1307/14

4,Hana Belay ……………………………....NSR/2371/14

5,Mohammedzen Sultan…………………….NSR/1198/14

SUBMITTEDTO:Mrs.Birhanu
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 Part One: Introduction

1.1 Overview and Background

1.2 Problem/Opportunity Statement

1.3 Objectives of the Project

1.4 Significance of the Project

1.5 Scope of the Proposed System

1.6 Methodology

1.7 Feasibility Analysis of the Proposed IT Solutions

1.8 Schedule (Identifying the Tasks and Time Frame)

1.9 Communication Plan

Part Two: Requirement Gathering

2.1 Determining system requirements

Detail overview of the existing system using Requirement gathering

2.3 techniques

Problems encountered by the existing system

2.5 Requirement definition

Functional requirements

2.7 Non functional requirements

Part Three: Structuring System Requirements

3.1 process modeling

3.2 Different level DFDs

3.3 Data Dictionary

3.4 logic modeling of the new system

3.5 structured English or Decision tree or Decision table

3.6 generating and selecting the best alternative design strategy

Part Four: Design of the New System

4.1 Conceptual data modeling of the new system

Identifying Entity Types and attributes

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4.3 identifying, attribute, relationship degrees and names/types among entities.

4.4 ER modeling

4.5 Structural design

4.6 Database design

Logical database design and Physical database design

4.8 User Interface design

4.9 Forms and reports design

Part Five: Conclusion and Recommendation

Part One: Introduction

The online examination system is a sophisticated software
application designed to streamline and enhance the process of
conducting exams in a digital environment. It replaces the
traditional pen-and-paper method, providing a secure and
efficient platform for administrators, instructors, and students
to create, administer, and evaluate exams online.

The purpose of this document is to provide a comprehensive

analysis of the online examination system. It covers the
functionalities, requirements, and interactions of the system,
serving as a foundation for its development and implementation.
The intended audience includes the development team, and
project managers involved in the project.

The online examination system offers a range of features and

capabilities to facilitate seamless exam management. It allows
teachers to create exams and include grading schemes. Students,
on the other hand, can access assigned exams, answer questions

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within the allotted time frame, and submit their
responses electronically.

This system analysis documentation will delve into various

aspects of the online examination system, including functional
and non-functional requirements. It will outline the desired
functionalities such as user registration, exam creation, exam
taking, exam evaluation, and result generation. It will also
address non-functional requirements such as performance,
security, usability, and reliability to ensure the system meets
the highest standards.

To provide a holistic view of the system, diagrams such as use

case diagrams will be included. These visual representations
will illustrate the interactions, data flow, and overall structure of
the online examination system.

By analyzing the online examination system comprehensively,

we aim to gain a clear understanding of its capabilities,
limitations, and constraints. This analysis will guide the
subsequent phases of development, implementation, and testing,
ensuring that the final system meets the expectations and
requirements of stakeholders and end-users.

1.2 system overview

The online examination system is a comprehensive software
solution that facilitates the creation, administration, and
evaluation of exams in a digital environment. It serves as an

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efficient and secure platform for educational institutions,
certification bodies, and organizations to conduct exams online.

The system consists of several interconnected components that

work together to ensure a seamless examination process. These
components include:

1. User Interface:
The user interface provides an intuitive and user-friendly
platform for , instructors, and students to interact with the
system. It offers various screens and functionalities tailored to
each user role, enabling easy navigation and access to relevant
features.

2. Exam Management:
The exam management component enables instructors to
create exams, assign questions, and set grading schemes. It
provides a centralized interface to manage the entire exam
lifecycle, from creation to evaluation.

3. User Management:
The user management component handles user registration,
authentication It allows individuals to create accounts, log in
securely, Different user roles, such as administrators, instructors,
and students, are defined to ensure appropriate access and
permissions.

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4. Question Bank:
The question bank serves as a repository for storing and
organizing a variety of exam questions. It allows instructors to
create, delete categorize, and manage a pool of questions that
can be used in multiple exams. This component ensures a
diverse and reliable set of questions for different assessments.

5. Result Generation:
The result generation component handles the automatic
grading of objective questions and provides a platform for
instructors to manually evaluate subjective questions. It
calculates exam scores, generates result This component
enables efficient and accurate assessment of exam performance.

The online examination system caters to multiple stakeholders

within the examination process. Instructors are responsible for
assigning exams, and Students, as exam takers, can access
assigned exams, and view their results.

enhanced accessibility, and improved efficiency in grading

and result generation. It eliminates the need for physical exam
papers, reduces the risk of human errors, and offers a flexible
and scalable solution for conducting exams.

This system analysis documentation will delve into the various

functionalities, requirements, and interactions of the online
examination system. It aims to provide a comprehensive
understanding of the system's capabilities and constraints,

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serving as a foundation for its successful development
and implementation.

1.3 Objectives of the Project

The objectives of the project outline the specific goals and
outcomes that the Online Examination System aims to achieve.
Examples of objectives may include:
1. Provide a secure and reliable online platform for conducting
examinations.
2. Streamline the examination process, reducing
administrative burdens and costs.
3. Ensure fairness, accuracy, and consistency in grading
and evaluation.
4. Enhance accessibility and convenience for students,
allowing them to take exams remotely.
5. Improve data management and analysis for
reporting purposes.
6. Enable faster result processing and feedback delivery to
students.

1.4 Significance of the Project:

The significance section describes the importance and potential
impact of implementing the Online Examination System. It may
discuss how the system will benefit various stakeholders, such
as educational institutions, students, instructors, and
administrators. Key points to highlight may include improved

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efficiency, enhanced learning experience, reduced costs, and
the ability to adapt to changing educational needs.

1.5 Scope of the Proposed System:

The scope section defines the boundaries and features of the
Online Examination System. It outlines the functionalities and
modules that will be included in the system. Examples of the
scope may include user registration, exam creation, question
bank management, exam scheduling, online proctoring,
grading, result generation, and reporting.
1.6 Methodology:
The methodology section describes the approach that will be
followed to develop and implement the Online Examination
System. It may mention the use of agile or iterative
development methodologies, involvement of stakeholders in the
development process, and any specific tools, technologies, or
frameworks that will be utilized.
1.7 Feasibility Analysis of the Proposed IT Solutions:
The feasibility analysis evaluates the technical, economic, and
operational feasibility of implementing the Online Examination
System. It assesses factors such as infrastructure requirements,
cost-effectiveness, scalability, data security, and compliance
with regulations.
Feasibility Analysis of the Proposed IT Solutions for an Online
Examination System:

1. Technical Feasibility:

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- Compatibility: The proposed online examination system must
be compatible with various devices and operating systems to
ensure seamless access for users.
- Scalability: The system should be able to handle a large
number of concurrent users during peak times without
compromising performance.
- Security: Robust security measures, such as encryption,
authentication, and access controls, must be implemented to
protect sensitive exam data and prevent unauthorized access.
- Resources: Assess the availability of necessary hardware,
software, and technical expertise required for the development,
implementation, and maintenance of the online examination
system.

2.Economic Feasibility:
- Cost-Benefit Analysis: Conduct a thorough cost-benefit
analysis to determine the financial viability of implementing the
online examination system. Consider factors such as initial
development costs, ongoing maintenance expenses, potential
savings from paperless exams, and revenue generation
opportunities through online exam services.
- Return on Investment (ROI): Calculate the expected ROI
from the implementation of the online examination system to
assess whether the benefits outweigh the costs over time.

3. Operational Feasibility:

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- User Acceptance: Evaluate the readiness and willingness of
students, teachers, and administrators to adopt and use the
online examination system. Provide training and support to
ensure smooth transition and user acceptance.
- Workflow Integration: Assess how the online
examination system will integrate with existing processes and
workflows within the educational institution. Minimize
disruptions and optimize efficiency by streamlining exam
administration tasks.

4. Legal and Regulatory Feasibility:

- Compliance: Ensure that the online examination system
complies with data protection laws, privacy regulations, and
industry standards related to online assessments. Address legal
risks, data privacy concerns, and intellectual property issues to
avoid potential legal challenges.
- Accessibility: Ensure that the online examination system
meets accessibility standards to accommodate students with
disabilities and comply with accessibility regulations.

5.Schedule Feasibility:

- Project Timelines: Develop a realistic project schedule that

outlines key milestones, deadlines, and dependencies for the
implementation of the online examination system. Consider
potential risks and allocate sufficient time for testing and quality
assurance.
- Resource Allocation: Assess the availability of resources,
including personnel, budget, and technology infrastructure,
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needed to meet project timelines and ensure successful
implementation within the desired timeframe.
1.8 Schedule (Identifying the Tasks and Time Frame):
The schedule section provides a timeline for the project,
outlining the tasks, deliverables, and estimated time frame for
each phase. It helps in tracking progress, managing resources,
and ensuring timely completion of the project. Key tasks may
include requirements gathering, system design, development,
testing, deployment, and training.
1.9 Communication Plan

A communication plan for the implementation of an online

examination system is crucial to ensure all stakeholders are
informed, engaged, and prepared for the transition. Here is a
suggested communication plan outline:

1. Identify Stakeholders:
- List all stakeholders involved in the implementation of
the online examination system, including students,
teachers, administrators, IT staff, and other relevant parties.

2. Define Objectives:
- Clearly outline the objectives of the communication plan, such
as informing stakeholders about the new system, addressing
concerns, providing training, and ensuring a smooth transition.

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3. Communication Channels:
- Determine the most effective communication channels to reach
each stakeholder group, such as email, newsletters, website
announcements, social media, staff meetings, training sessions,
and helpdesk support.

4. Key Messages:
- Develop key messages that highlight the benefits of the online
examination system, address potential concerns, provide
instructions for accessing and using the system, and emphasize
the importance of the transition.

5. Timeline:
- Create a timeline for communication activities, including pr-
launch announcements, training sessions, system roll-out
updates, and ongoing support.

6. Training and Support:

- Provide detailed training materials, tutorials, and resources to
help stakeholders learn how to use the online examination
system effectively. Offer support channels for troubleshooting
and addressing any issues that may arise.

7. Feedback Mechanisms:
- Establish feedback mechanisms, such as surveys, focus groups,
or help desk support, to gather input from stakeholders about
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their experiences with the online examination system and
address any concerns or suggestions for improvement.

8. Change Management:
- Implement change management strategies to help stakeholders
adapt to the new system, address resistance to change, and
promote a positive attitude towards the online examination
system.

9. Monitoring and Evaluation:

- Continuously monitor the effectiveness of the communication
plan by tracking engagement metrics, user feedback, and
system usage data. Evaluate the success of the plan and make
adjustments as needed to improve communication strategies.
Part Two: Requirement Gathering
2.1 Determining system requirements

To determine the system requirements for an

online examination system, several factors
need to be considered. Here's an example of
the information needed:

1. User Requirements:

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 - Number of concurrent users: How many users
are expected to access the system
simultaneously?
- User roles: What are the different user roles,
such as administrators, instructors, and students?
- User authentication: How will users be
authenticated, e.g., username/password, single
sign-on (SSO), or identity providers (Google,
Facebook, etc.)?

2. Exam Features:
- Question types: , various question types
can be supported. Here are some commonly
used question types:
1. Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs): These
questions present a question or statement with
multiple answer options, where the student selects
one or more correct answers from the given
choices.

2. True/False Questions: These questions present

a statement, and the student must indicate
whether the statement is true or false.

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3. Fill in the Blanks: These questions have a
sentence or paragraph with one or more missing
words or phrases, and the student must fill in the
missing parts.

4. Matching Questions: These questions consist of

two columns, where the student needs to match
items from one column to items in another column
based on their relationship or association.

5. Short Answer Questions: These questions

require the student to provide a brief answer or
explanation within a specified word limit.

6. Essay Questions: These questions prompt

the student to write a longer, more detailed
response to a topic or question. Essay questions
typically require critical thinking and analysis.

7. Numerical Questions: These questions

involve mathematical calculations, where the
student needs to provide a numerical answer.

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8. Diagram-based Questions: These
questions may include images, graphs, or
diagrams, and the student must analyze and
answer questions based on the provided visual
information.

9. Coding Questions: These questions assess

the student's programming skills by requiring
them to write code to solve a specific problem
or complete a given task.
3. Exam Administration:

Exam creation and management:

- Exams can be created and managed through an
administration panel or dashboard accessible to
authorized users, such as instructors or
administrators.
- Instructors can create new exams by specifying
the exam details, including the title, duration,
question types, and any specific instructions.
- Once the exam is ready, it can be assigned to
specific students or groups of students, either
manually or through bulk assignment features.

Grading and scoring:

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- Grading and scoring can be done manually by
instructors or automatically by the system,
depending on the question types and settings.
- The system may allow instructors to define
grading rubrics or scoring guidelines to ensure
consistency.
- Some online examination systems may offer
automated grading for specific question types,
such as coding questions, using predefined test
cases or algorithms.

Result publication:

- Once exams are graded, the results can be

made available to both students and
instructors through their respective portals.
- Students can access their individual results,
which may include scores, correct/incorrect
answers, and any feedback or explanations
provided by instructors.
- Result publication can be controlled to ensure
privacy and data protection, with permissions and
access restrictions based on user roles and
settings.

It's important to note that the specific features and

functionalities related to exam administration may
vary

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depending on the online examination system
being used. Different systems may offer additional
capabilities or customization options in line with
the organization's requirements.

4. Security and Integrity:

- Data security: What measures will be in
place to protect user data, exam content, and
results?
- Cheating prevention: How will the system
prevent cheating, such as by monitoring user
activity or using remote proctoring tools?
- Data backup and recovery: How will data be
backed up to prevent loss in case of system
failures?

5. System Integration:
- Integration with other systems: Will the
online examination system need to integrate
with existing systems, such as student
information systems or learning management
systems?
- APIs and standards: Are there any specific APIs
or standards that the system needs to support for
data exchange or integration?

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6. Scalability and Performance:
- Expected growth: Are there any anticipated
future growth plans for the system, such as
increasing the number of users or adding new
features?
- Performance requirements: What are the
expected response times, page load times, and
system availability?

7. Technical Infrastructure:
- Hosting environment: Will the system be hosted
on-premises or in the cloud? What are the
preferred hosting platforms?
- Hardware and software requirements: What are
the minimum hardware and software
specifications for the servers and client devices?
- Browser compatibility: Which browsers
and versions need to be supported?

These are some of the key factors to consider when

determining the system requirements for an online
examination system. The specific requirements will
vary based on the organization's needs and
constraints.

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2.2 Detail overview of the
existing system using
Requirement gathering
techniques

To provide a detailed overview of an existing

online examination system using requirement
gathering techniques, let's consider an example
scenario:

1. Interviews: Conduct interviews with

stakeholders, such as instructors, administrators,
and students, to gather their perspectives on the
current system. Ask questions like:
- How do you currently create and manage exams?
- What grading and scoring methods are
used for exams?
- How are exam results published to students
and instructors?

Example response: During interviews, instructors

mentioned that they create exams by logging into
the system's administration panel. They can
specify the

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exam details, add questions from a question
bank, and assign the exam to specific students or
groups.

2. Observations: Observe the system in action,

either by attending live exam sessions or
reviewing recorded sessions, to understand the
existing workflow and user interactions.
- How do instructors navigate the system to
create and manage exams?
- What actions do administrators perform
to facilitate the grading process?
- How do students access and view their exam
results?

Example response: By observing the system, it

was found that instructors access a dedicated
"Exam Management" section in the
administration panel, where they can create new
exams, select question types, and assign the
exams to students. Students, on the other hand,
log into their individual accounts, access the
"Exam Results" section, and view their scores,
correct/incorrect answers, and any feedback
provided by instructors.

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3. Surveys/Questionnaires: Distribute surveys or
questionnaires to gather feedback and opinions
from a larger user base. Include questions like:
- How satisfied are you with the current
exam creation and management process?
- Do you find the grading and scoring
methods effective and accurate?
- Are the exam results easily accessible
and understandable?

Example response: Surveys indicated that most

instructors find the current exam creation and
management process satisfactory, but some
expressed the need for additional features like
question randomization. Students generally found
the grading and scoring methods fair, but a few
suggested more detailed feedback on subjective
questions. The majority of users found the exam
results easily accessible and understandable.

4. Documentation Review: Review existing

documentation, such as user manuals, system
specifications, or support tickets, to gain insights
into

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the system's features, limitations, and common
issues reported by users.
- What functionalities and features are
documented for the exam creation and
management process?
- Have there been any reported issues
related to grading accuracy or result
publication?

Example response: The system's user manual

provides detailed instructions on creating exams,
managing question banks, and assigning exams to
students. There have been a few support tickets
related to grading discrepancies, which were
promptly addressed by the technical support
team. No major issues have been reported
concerning result publication.

By applying these requirement gathering

techniques to the example scenario, we can gain
a comprehensive understanding of the existing
online examination system, including the exam
creation and management process, grading and
scoring methods, and result publication
procedures. This knowledge serves as a
foundation for identifying areas of improvement
and defining requirements for system
enhancements or future iterations.

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2.3 Problems encountered by the
existing system

1.Limited question types: The system may only

support a limited range of question types, such as
multiple-choice or true/false, which can limit the
ability to assess certain skills or knowledge areas
effectively.

2. Lack of flexibility in exam scheduling: The

system may only allow exams to be scheduled at
specific times, which can create conflicts for
students with different time zones or scheduling
constraints. This lack of flexibility may result in
some students being unable to take the exam.

3. Inefficient exam creation and management:

The process of creating and managing exams
within the system may be cumbersome and
time-consuming for instructors. It may lack
features for easily importing questions,
organizing question banks, or randomizing
question order.

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4. Limited automated grading capabilities: The
system may lack automated grading capabilities
for certain question types, such as coding
questions or subjective essays. This can lead to
increased manual grading efforts for instructors,
which can be time-consuming and prone to
inconsistencies.

5. Insufficient result feedback: The system may

provide limited or generic feedback to students
regarding their exam performance. Students may
require more detailed explanations or specific
feedback on their answers to better understand
their strengths and areas for improvement.

6. Security vulnerabilities: The system may have

security vulnerabilities that expose user data,
exam content, or results to unauthorized access
or manipulation. This can compromise the
integrity of the examination process and raise
concerns about the confidentiality of sensitive
information.

7. Lack of integration with other systems: The

system may not integrate seamlessly with other
systems, such as learning management systems
or student information systems. This can result in
manual data
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entry or synchronization efforts, leading to
potential errors or inconsistencies.

8. Performance issues: The system may

experience performance issues during peak
usage times, such as slow response times or
page load times. This can negatively impact the
user experience and cause frustration for both
students and instructors.

2.3 Requirement definition

2.3.1 Functional requirements
The functional requirements of the online examination system
specify the specific functionalities and features that the system
must provide to meet the needs of instructors, and students.
These requirements outline the expected behavior and
capabilities of the system. Here are the functional requirements
for the online examination system:

1. User Registration and Authentication:

- Users should be able to create accounts and provide
necessary personal information for registration.
- The system should authenticate user credentials securely
during the login process to ensure authorized access.

2. Exam Creation and Management:

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 - lectures should be able to create exams with customizable
parameters
- The system should allow lectures to assign questions from
the question bank to specific exams.
- The system should support the ability to update, and delete
exams as needed.

3. User Enrollment:
- The system should ensure that only enrolled students
can access the assigned exams.
4. Exam Taking:
- Students should be able to access assigned exams and
view the instructions and time limit.
- The system should present questions to students one at a time,
with options for navigation (previous, next, skip) within the
exam.
- The system should provide functionality for students
to submit their answers within the specified time frame.
5. Question Types and Formats:
- The system should support various question types, such as
multiple-choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank
- For subjective questions, the system should provide a text
editor or file upload option for students to provide their answers.
6. Exam Evaluation and Grading:
- The system should automatically grade objective questions
based on predefined answer keys and grading schemes.

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 - Instructors should be able to manually evaluate and grade
subjective questions.
8. Time Management:
- The system should enforce time limits for each exam and
ensure that students are automatically submitted upon expiration.
- The system should allow administrators to set time
extensions or accommodations for specific students if needed.
9. Security and Integrity:
- The system should implement secure protocols for
data transmission and storage to protect exam content and
user information.
- The system should prevent unauthorized access and
ensure that users can only access exams they are enrolled in.
- The system should have mechanisms in place to detect and
prevent cheating or fraudulent activities during the exam.
These functional requirements define the core functionalities
and behaviors expected from the online examination system.
They provide a clear understanding of the system's capabilities
and guide the development and implementation process to
ensure that the system meets the needs of all stakeholders.
2.3.2 Non-Functional Requirements:
In addition to the functional requirements, the online
examination system also has non-functional requirements that
specify the qualities, constraints, and characteristics of the
system. These requirements focus on aspects such as
performance, security, usability, reliability, and scalability. Here
are some non-functional requirements for the online
examination system:
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1. Performance:
- The system should be capable of handling a large number of
concurrent users during peak usage periods without significant
performance degradation.
- The response time for loading exam pages and submitting
answers should be fast to minimize user frustration.

2. Security:
- The system implement strong security measures to protect
user data, exam content, and system integrity.
- User authentication and authorization mechanisms be robust
to prevent unauthorized access.
- The system encrypt sensitive data, such as passwords and
student responses, during transmission and storage.
- Measures in place to detect and prevent cheating, including
monitoring for suspicious activities and plagiarism detection.
3. Usability:
- The user interface intuitive, user-friendly, and easy to
navigate for administrators, instructors, and students.
- The system should provide clear instructions and guidance
throughout the exam-taking process to ensure a seamless
experience.
- The layout and design of the system visually appealing
and accessible, with appropriate font sizes, color contrasts,
and readability.

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4. Reliability:
- The system highly available, with minimal downtime and
disruptions.
- It should have robust error handling and recovery
mechanisms to handle system failures and unexpected errors
gracefully.
- The system regularly back up data to prevent data loss
and provide mechanisms for data restoration.

5. Scalability:
- The system able to accommodate a growing number of users,
exams, and questions without significant performance
degradation.
- The system should be able to handle concurrent exam
sessions and multiple exam instances without
compromising performance.

6. Compatibility:
- The system should be compatible with different web
browsers and operating systems to ensure broad accessibility
for users.
- It should adhere to industry standards and guidelines for web
application development and compatibility.

7. Accessibility:

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 - The system comply with accessibility standards, such as the
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), to ensure that
users with disabilities can access and use the system effectively.
- It provide options for assistive technologies, such as screen
readers and keyboard navigation, to support users with visual or
motor impairments.

8. Data Privacy:
- The system comply with relevant data protection regulations,
such as GDPR or HIPAA, to ensure the privacy and
confidentiality of user data.
- It should provide mechanisms for users to manage their
data and control their privacy settings.
These non-functional requirements define the qualities and
characteristics that the online examination system should
possess to ensure optimal performance, security, usability, and
reliability. They play a critical role in shaping the system's
design, development, and implementation process.

Part Three: Structuring System Requirement

3.1 Process Modeling

Process modeling is a technique used to visually represent the flow of
data and activities within a system. In the context of an online
examination system, process modeling can help illustrate the
different processes and interactions involved in creating, managing,
and conducting exams. Here's an example using a detailed example
form, different level DFDs, and a data dictionary:
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1. Example Form:

To illustrate the process modeling, let's consider an example form used

for creating and managing exams in the online examination system. The
form includes the following fields:
 Exam Details Form:

 Exam Title (Text field)

 Exam Duration (Numeric field)

 Question Types (Checkbox options: Multiple Choice,

True/False, Essay)
 Instructions (Text area)

 Assign to (Drop down: Individual students, Groups)

2. Different Level DFDs:

Process modeling can be represented using Data Flow Diagrams (DFDs).

DFDs depict the flow of data and processes within a system. Here's an
example of DFDs at different levels for the online examination system:

 Level 0 DFD:

- This high-level DFD represents the major processes and external

entities involved in the system.
- It includes entities like Instructors, Students, and Administrators, as well
as processes like Exam Creation, Exam Assignment, and Result
Publication.

 Level 1 DFD:

32
- This level provides a more detailed view of the major
processes identified in the Level 0 DFD.
- For example, the Exam Creation process may involve sub-processes
such as Exam Details Entry, Question Selection, and Instructions Input.

 Level 2 DFD:

- This level delves further into the sub-processes identified in the Level 1
DFD.

- For instance, the Question Selection sub-process may involve activities

like Question Bank Access, Question Filtering, and Question Import.
3. Data Dictionary:

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A data dictionary provides a detailed description of the data
elements used in the system. Here's an example data dictionary for
the online examination system:
 - Exam Title:

Description: The title or name of the exam.

Data Type: Text

- Exam Duration:

Description: The duration of the exam in minutes.

Data Type: Numeric

 - Question Types:

Description: The types of questions included in the exam.

Data Type: Checkbox options (Multiple Choice, True/False, Essay)

- Instructions:

 Description: Additional instructions or guidelines for the exam.

Data Type: Text

- Assign to:

Description: The target audience for the exam (individual students or

groups).
 Data Type: Dropdown (Individual students, Groups)

This data dictionary defines the attributes and characteristics of the

data elements used in the online examination system.
By utilizing example forms, different level DFDs, and a data dictionary,
process modeling for the online examination system can be effectively
represented. These visual representations aid in understanding the flow of
data and activities, facilitating system analysis, design, and improvement.

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3.2 Logic Modeling of the New System:

Logic modeling focuses on capturing the system's logic and

rules using structured English, decision trees, or decision
tables. These techniques help in specifying how the system
should behave based on different conditions and inputs.

1.Structured English:
Structured English is a technique for describing the system's
logic and processes using a natural language that follows a
predefined structure. It helps in specifying the sequence of
steps and conditions for various system functionalities.
Structured English uses standard control structures such as
sequence, selection (if-else), and iteration (loops) to define the
system's logic flow.
For example, a structured English representation of an
exam submission process might include steps such as:
1. Read user's submitted answers.
2. Validate the answers for correctness and completeness.
3. Calculate the score based on the grading algorithm.
4. Store the score and feedback in the database.
5. Notify the user about the result.

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Decision Tree:
A decision tree is a visual representation of the system's
decision-making process. It helps in capturing the logic flow
based on different conditions or choices. Decision nodes
represent conditions, and branches represent possible outcomes
based on those conditions.
Decision Table:
A decision table provides a tabular representation of the
system's rules and conditions. It helps in defining the system's
logic flow based on different combinations of inputs and
conditions. Each row in the table represents a unique
combination of conditions, and the corresponding columns
define the actions or outcomes based on those conditions.
A decision table is useful when there are multiple conditions and
possible combinations of inputs that affect the system's behavior.
It helps in capturing all possible scenarios and ensures that the
system behaves consistently.
3.3 Generating and Selecting the Best
Alternative Design Strategy:
To generate and select the best design strategy for the Online
Examination System, the following steps can be followed:
Identify Design Alternatives:
Explore different design alternatives that meet the system
requirements. Consider different architectural patterns,
technologies, frameworks, and implementation approaches.
This may involve brainstorming sessions, research, and
evaluating existing solutions in the market.
Evaluate Design Alternatives:

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Assess the pros and cons of each design alternative based on
factors such as feasibility, scalability, maintainability, cost, and
alignment with the system's objectives. Consider aspects such as
performance, security, user experience, and integration
capabilities. Perform a thorough analysis of each alternative to
understand its implications on the system.

Select the Best Design Strategy:

Based on the evaluation, choose the design strategy that best
meets the requirements and aligns with the project's
constraints and goals. Consider trade-offs and select the option
that provides the most value and feasibility for the Online
Examination System. Document the rationale behind the
selection, highlighting the advantages and justification for
choosing the specific design strategy.

The process of generating and selecting the best alternative

design strategy requires collaboration and input from
stakeholders, technical experts, and project managers. It may
involve conducting feasibility studies, cost-benefit analysis, and
prototyping to validate the chosen design strategy before
proceeding with the development of the Online Examination
System.
Part Four: Design of the New System

4.1 Conceptual data modeling of the new system

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Conceptual Data Modeling of the New System:
Conceptual data modeling involves identifying the entity
types, attributes, and relationships within the system. This
helps in understanding the structure and organization of the
data in the Online Examination System. The following steps
are typically followed:
Example:
In our online examination system, we have three main entities:
Student, Exam, and Result.
4.2 Entities:
1. Student:
- student_id (Primary Key): A unique identifier for each student.
- name: The name of the student.
- email: The email address of the student.
- password: The password associated with the student's account.
2. Instructor:
- instructor_id (Primary Key): A unique identifier for each
instructor.
- name: The name of the instructor.
- email: The email address of the instructor.
- password: The password associated with the instructor's
account.

3. Exam:
- exam_id (Primary Key): A unique identifier for each exam.
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- title: The title or name of the exam.
- duration: The duration of the exam.
- instructions: Any special instructions or guidelines for
the exam.

4. Question:
- question_id (Primary Key): A unique identifier for each
question.
- text: The text of the question.
- type: The type of question (e.g., multiple choice,
true/false, essay).
- options: The available options for multiple-choice questions.

5. Result:
- result_id (Primary Key): A unique identifier for each result.
- student_id (Foreign Key): A reference to the student who took
the exam.
- exam_id (Foreign Key): A reference to the exam for which the
result is recorded.
- score: The score or grade achieved by the student in the exam.

Relationships:
1. Takes:

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- Many-to-Many relationship between Student and
Exam entities.
- Represents the fact that a student can take multiple exams,
and an exam can be taken by multiple students.

2. Creates:
- One-to-Many relationship between Instructor and Exam
entities.
- Represents the association between an instructor who creates
exams and the exams themselves.

3. Contains:
- Many-to-Many relationship between Exam and Question
entities.
- Denotes that an exam can contain multiple questions, and a
question can be part of multiple exams.

4. Scores:
- Many-to-One relationship between Student, Exam, and Result
entities.
- Signifies that a student's result is associated with a specific
exam.
4.3 E-R Modeling:
Based on the above entities and relationships, the ER diagram
for the online examination system would look like this:

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In this ER model, the rectangles represent entities, the lines
represent relationships, and the diamonds represent the
relationship degrees (e.g., 1:M, M:N). The attributes for
each entity are listed within the rectangles.
This ER modeling provides a clear representation of the
entities, their attributes, and the relationships between them in
the online examination system. It serves as a foundation for
further database design and implementation.
4. 4 Structural Design:
For an online examination system, the structural design
typically involves a client-server architecture. The clients,
which are the users accessing the system, interact with a central
server that manages the system's functionality and data storage.

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 In this architecture, the web browser acts as the client,
interacting with the web server (application
server) that handles the requests and responses. The web server
communicates with the database server to retrieve and store data.
4.4 Database Design:
4.4.1 Logical Database Design:
Based on the entities identified earlier, here's an example of
a logical database design for an online examination system:

4.4.2 Physical Database Design:

The physical database design involves implementing the logical
schema in a specific database management system (DBMS) and
defining the tables, columns, data types, and relationships.

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Here's an example of the physical database design for the online
examination system, using the Entity-Relationship (ER) model:

4.5 User Interface Design:

4.5.1 Forms Design:
Forms in an online examination system typically include
registration forms, login forms, exam selection forms,
and answer submission forms.
4,5.1 Reports Design:
Reports in an online examination system can include exam
results, student performance analysis, and statistical summaries.

Since drawing the UI diagrams can be quite complex, it is

recommended to consult with a UI designer or use specialized
prototyping tools to create visually appealing and user-friendly
forms and reports.

Overall, the structural design, database design, and user

interface design are crucial components of an online
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examination system, ensuring the system's functionality, data
management, and user experience are effectively implemented.
Part Five: Conclusion and Recommendation
Conclusion:
In conclusion, designing an online examination system involves
several important aspects, including structural design, database
design, and user interface design. The structural design focuses
on defining the overall architecture and components of the
system. Database design involves organizing and structuring the
data, both logically and physically. User interface design is
responsible for creating an intuitive and user-friendly interface
for users to interact with the system, including forms and reports.

Recommendation:
When developing an online examination system, consider the
following recommendations:

1. User-Friendly Interface: Design a user interface that is

intuitive, easy to navigate, and visually appealing. Use clear
labels, logical organization of information, and consistent design
elements to enhance the user experience.

2. Responsive Design: Ensure that the system's user interface is

responsive and compatible with different devices, such as
desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobile phones. This allows users to
access the system from any device with a seamless experience.

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3. Security Measures: Implement robust security measures to
protect user data, prevent unauthorized access, and ensure the
integrity of the examination process. Use encryption techniques,
secure authentication mechanisms, and secure data storage
practices.

4. Scalability: Design the system to be scalable, allowing it

to handle a large number of concurrent users and exams.
This includes optimizing database performance, load
balancing techniques, and efficient resource management.

5. Accessibility: Ensure that the online examination system is

accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. Follow
accessibility guidelines and provide features such as screen
reader compatibility, keyboard navigation, and color contrast
options.

6. Testing and Validation: Thoroughly test the system to identify

and fix any bugs or vulnerabilities. Conduct usability testing to
gather feedback from potential users and make necessary
improvements based on their input.

7. Ongoing Maintenance and Support: Plan for regular

maintenance and provide technical support to address any
issues or concerns raised by users. Keep the system up to date
with security patches, bug fixes, and feature enhancements.

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By considering these recommendations, you can create a robust
and user-friendly online examination system that provides a
seamless experience for both students and instructors.

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