STOPit: Testing security reporting app for MCAT (message from AAMC)

[Mr.Smile12]

Enhancing MCAT Exam Security with the STOPit App 
The AAMC now offers the option for examinees to submit MCAT security concerns through the STOPit mobile app. STOPit is designed to transform the way examinees can report and prevent inappropriate exam behavior, and it provides a safe and anonymous platform for users to share information related to suspected content breaches, theft, and compliance violations. The STOPit app empowers examinees to actively and promptly contribute to MCAT security content protection. You can download the STOPit app on Google Play or in the App Store.

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[wysdoc]

How are the examinees to use this if phones are not allowed in the testing center?
Does it allow reports to occur after the testing day is over, unlike the previous requirement to report something to a proctor during the test?

 

[Mr.Smile12]

How are the examinees to use this if phones are not allowed in the testing center?
Does it allow reports to occur after the testing day is over, unlike the previous requirement to report something to a proctor during the test?

Good questions to ask the MCAT team. I am just the messenger (from their newsletter). I thought it was odd too. This is all marketing gibberish. Just wondering if anyone else has experience with it.

 

[BerkReviewTeach]

I am really curious about this, because as was pointed out in.a post above, it is set up for after-the-fact reporting. I'm speculating that the only thing they are looking for is questions on a person's MCAT that seemed similar (nearly identical) to an Anki card or question from a commercial source. I guess they could report suspected question thievery by someone at the test center.

Many years ago, one of the test prep companies nearly recreated an MCAT, and the blowback was severe. I wonder if that has been an issue or concern of late.

 

[wysdoc]

Good questions to ask the MCAT team. I am just the messenger (from their newsletter). I thought it was odd too. This is all marketing gibberish. Just wondering if anyone else has experience with it.

I enquired and got this information from AAMC and MCAT Security

1. True, cell phones are not allowed in the testing center. If a student brings a phone in with them, it is bagged and held sequestered, then given back to the student after they complete their test and are leaving the center.
2. A student wanting to file an official report or inquiry with AAMC/MCAT STILL needs to mention their concern to the proctor before leaving the testing center. The proctor will make note of it.
3. A student can next lodge a complaint/concern via the STOPit app after leaving the testing center, using their phone.
4. The app is 2-way encrypted, so despite anonymity, the MCAT security team can follow up by messaging back to the reporter.
5. I'm not sure what the messaging will be, back to someone who reports an issue, but it might be to point the reporter to what they need to do next to make an official report online and how long they have to do this.

Maybe they are trying this to increase reporting of testing security issues. Most test-takers may not know there is a limited time window to report test center concerns.
The updated AAMC page gives you 3 ways to report concerns about a testing center issue:
1. STOPit app
2. AAMC webform
3. A phone number to call.
MCAT Testing Center Regulations & Procedures

 

[BerkReviewTeach]

Thank you for taking the time to look into this wisdom. That makes so much more sense now.