Remote Testing Improves Automotive Assessment

April 26, 2010 - PRLog -- A Bristol-based automotive academy is pioneering a revolutionary new assessment technique that will significantly improve the way automotive technicians are tested.

Developed by S&B Automotive Academy in Bristol, the project, called Jericho, makes use of wireless enabled net-cams. The cameras can be positioned anywhere in the garage and means learner technicians can be tested without the need for an assessor to be present.

During the assessment the assessor can watch what’s going on via their own computer and ask questions at any time on the technicians’ techniques and methods.

It means the assessor can be located in a completely different part of the country meaning less travel (and reduction on CO2 emissions) and improvement in assessment completion times.

Other benefits include the removal of barriers to assessment on demand, improved efficiency in the delivery of vocational qualifications, improved learner support and significant improvement in value for money.

Jon Winter, chief executive at S&B Automotive Academy said: “This is a fantastic new method of assessment and has a huge number of benefits. At the academy we’re constantly looking at ways in which we can improve the techniques of how technicians are assessed.

“It seemed obvious to make use of computer technology as more and more garages become linked to the internet.

“Using remote Net Cam web based technology will significantly improve the learner experience especially the links between themselves and their assessor. It will also address what has always been one of the traditional barriers to work based learning which is the non-availability of assessment on demand.

“It means automotive technicians can and will be assessed much more easily improving their skill and ensuring the general public get the best possible service on their vehicles.”

The academy currently trains 600 students a year with courses ranging from pre-apprenticeships, through apprenticeships for those working in the motor industry, management training and other short courses.

A leader in the automotive sector, the academy received a platinum SkillMiles award from Prince Michael of Kent. The award was presented by the Institute of Motor Industry in recognition of its work in meeting the skills needs of the automotive industry.

For information on training on offer at S&B Automotive visit the website on http://www.sandbaa.com or call: 0117 953 3001.

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S&B Automotive Academy is based in Bristol UK specialising in training apprentices for the motor industry.

Release issued by Empica - http://www.empica.co.uk