HP mid-range graphing calculator with exam mode

[Joe Horn]

(10-09-2015 11:55 PM)StephenG1CMZ Wrote:  

(04-23-2015 06:53 PM)Tim Wessman Wrote:  Not unless a 10 second cycle will set you off...

Don't forget though that although each calculator might be flashing every 10s, 100 of them in an exam could mean a flash every 0.1s. Or are they accurately synchronised?

If the teacher starts the exam mode correctly (using the wireless classroom kit), the LEDs are VERY accurately synchronized. They have to be, to serve their purpose of verifying that they are all still in exam mode. As soon as any calculator stops being exactly in synch with the others (which is strikingly easy to see, at a glance), it means that that calculator somehow exited that exam mode.

Quote:I would certainly have found that distracting, just when you need to concentrate.

The LEDs are not distracting, because only the teacher or proctor at the front of the room sees the LEDs. A standard "classroom-style seating" arrangement of the desks is assumed. The students being tested don't see the LEDs at all, unless they turn around and look at students behind them, which of course is never allowed anyhow.