THE PROFESSIONAL  Regulation Commission is considering holding computer-based licensure exams in 8 degree programs this year.

PRC Chairperson Teofilo Pilando Jr. said that exams must continue despite the  health crisis.

He noted that the holding of hybrid tests has been “well received” in the geology licensure exam last year.

“It would still require a common exam venue and fixed exam schedule but using a computer. This way, it will be a transition from the conventional pen and paper exam and would be more manageable given current conditions,” Pilando said.

The agency will hold a hybrid psychology licensure exam on February 8 to 9. It will be computer-based for those who will take the test in Metro Manila and written for those who will take it in Cebu because internet connection remains unstable there.

The PRC also plans to implement computer-based exams in aeronautical engineering, dental hygiene and technology, guidance and counseling, metallurgical engineering, naval architecture, and sanitary engineering.

The commission is also considering hiring the service of a third party or another company for this type of exam.

Pilando said that the implementation of the computer-based exam is based on the number of takers, the equipment in the testing centers and the readiness of the professionals themselves to move to computerized licensure exams.

He added that it is possible to further develop the system “to make the exam on-demand without going to the testing center.”

“We may be able still to commodify this in the future, if needed, for an exam on-demand–meaning being able to take the exam anytime, anywhere,” Pilando said.

“But again, this would depend on the rules, the technology available and acceptability by all concerned stakeholders,” he added.