The Institute of the Motor Industry has today launched a method of testing the knowledge of vehicle technicians working towards new national qualifications, via the internet.

Aimed at improving standards of workmanship through advances in training, the IMI's on-line assessment system will allow candidates undertaking technical National and Scottish Vocational Qualifications to be tested on their knowledge and diagnostic skills on-line. This will complement an assessment process in the workplace.

Following more than a year in development in association with Innovative Techologies in Education (ITE) and Click2Learn, the system is accessed via the IMI's internet homepage and features a three-stage security process.

The tests are presented in an easily navigable multiple choice format and all questions are randomised, so that every candidate sits a unique, timed, exam. This is marked and the results logged by the IMI. A rolling database of questions will ensure that all tests reflect continual advances in technology.

Some 200 colleges and training organisations throughout the UK are already accredited by the IMI to conduct the new tests. These relate to auto electricians, body fitters, repairers and refinishers, light and heavy vehicle technicians, motorcycle technicians, vehicle valeters and vehicle inspectors.

The need for more training was one of the key recommendations in last year's report by the Office of Fair Trading, following its inquiry into car servicing and repair standards.