eNaTIS computer based testing introduced

Learner’s license testing has been overhauled with the introduction of the National Traffic Information System (eNaTiS) Computerised Learner’s License Testing (CLLT) module which replaces the current booklet testing module.

The National Department of Transport (DOT) in conjunction with the Eastern Cape Department of Transport and Tasima, on Friday, rolled out the first eNaTIS CLLT classroom in Peddie.

The eNaTIS CLLT classroom is equipped to accommodate a maximum of 20 candidates per sitting.  Previously Peddie ran three daily leaner’s license testing classes with 11 candidates per class. With the eNaTIS CLLT solution classroom facility the Peddie driving licence testing centre (DLTC) will accommodate a greater number of learners more frequently as a leaner’s licence test last for an hour.

The classroom is equipped with 20 kiosks with an equal number of touch screen CLLT computers, one workstation and a document printer for the examiner, including full electrical and network points deployed to power the classroom and ensure connection to the eNaTIS system. To guard against electricity interruptions or power failure while testing is in progress, the classroom is equipped with a six KVA Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) with two hours battery pack.

“Having a computerised based testing system makes it easier to update the question bank when vehicle controls, rules of the road and road signs change. The current books have a total of 160 questions whereas the new solution has over 1200 approved questions in the eNaTIS CLLT question bank,” says CLLT project manager at Tasima, Jean-Pierre van der Merwe.

The increase in the number of questions in the eNaTIS question bank is intended to eliminate all possibilities of cheating by candidates taking the test.

“For example, two learners sitting for a learner’s test at the same time will be asked a different set of questions from each the other,” van der Merwe adds.

The system will also eliminate the intervention of corrupt officials who in the past facilitated a pass mark for the candidate since the marking was manual. With the new facility, the computer will automatically mark the test based on how each candidate performed.

The testing module is fully integrated with the eNaTIS therefore there is no manual intervention required by officials at the DLTCs. Launched within the web browser, the module is a web-based application that integrates with the eNaTIS via secure web services.

“With the new approach to learners’ license testing, the department aims to improve the quality of learner drivers on our roads and eventually ensure that the improved testing will contribute to safer roads by ensuring only competent drivers obtain a licence. Currently applicants for learner’s licences study and memorise the sequence of the answers only and are then able to obtain a learner’s licences in this manner. The random selection of questions will break this trend and candidates will have a better understanding of the content at hand,” explains Eastern Cape MEC for Transport, Roads and Public Works, Thandiswa Marawu.

CEO of Tasima, Tebogo Mphuti notes that the CLLT module is a key milestone in the transition towards a digital phase which is a trend in service delivery world-wide.

“With advancements in technology, we are always mindful of the audience for whom the solution is designed and noting that not everyone is computer literate, we therefore simplified the solution without compromising the integrity of the exam.  Users of the CLLT facility need not be computer literate as the module is intuitive and self-explanatory.”

The eNaTIS CLLT questions are available in all official languages and the electronic representation of questions is similar to those currently being used in the manual exam. 

“The module uses touch screen technology which is easy and quick to adapt to and yet very robust for use by members of the public. The module has a built-in training module, where candidates complete a set of trial questions to familiarise themselves with both the system and the types of questions to be asked,” adds Mphuti. 

For examiners, training is provided to enable them to assist all learners that might experience anxiety due to unfamiliarity with computers.

“Over and above the Eastern Cape the project is simultaneously being rolled out to six other participating provinces namely Gauteng, Free State, Mpumalanga, North West, Northern Cape and the Western Cape. Provinces that have not yet identified sites are Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal. The activation of the eNaTIS CLLT module will take place in phases and the department will make the necessary announcement when sites go live,” explains Mphuti.