Kerala University to barcode answer sheets

Thiruvananthapuram: As part of ensuring transparency in the examination process, Kerala University has decided to implement barcodes as a unique identification tool for the answer sheet.

Kerala University Vice-Chancellor V. P. Mahadevan Pillai told Deccan Chronicle that the syndicate had already given sanction for the same and the process for acquiring the bar code machine started.

The tender for the same is likely to be invited soon, said Mr Pillai.

The barcodes are given before the process of the false numbering of answer scripts. It will ensure that the identity of the student will remain secret as answer sheets carry only barcodes.

At present, the university collected answer sheets from examination centres and gave a false number to each one before assigning to teachers for evaluation. After the valuation, the university has to remove the false numbers and put the original numbers before they enter scores in the mark sheet. Presently, the answer sheets are being numbered and counted manually.

As per the proposed change, all copies will be scanned and sent to the evacuation centres. The front page of the answer booklet that contains information like candidate name and roll number will be removed. It will be kept at the respective centres.

The evaluators mark answer sheets which are cross-checked by the supervising teacher. After the valuation, marks are entered directly into a computer linked to the server of the university. These marks are entered against each barcode after scanning them using a barcode reader.

There is no need for any further tabulation.

As per the proposed changes, two barcodes will be assigned to a candidate. They will be sent along with the answer booklets to the examination venue. The invigilator will have to stick one barcode on the facing page of the answer booklet. The same barcode will be pasted to the nominal rolls generated for the examination.