What You Need to Know About Online Proctoring

I’m sure you’ve heard of online proctoring before. Maybe you’ve even done it yourself. But if you haven’t, here is the main gist: Online proctoring is a way for students to take exams in a secure environment where there are no distractions or opportunities for cheating. It’s a great option for students who have special needs or who just want to make sure they won’t be distracted during an exam. But like everything else out there, online proctoring isn’t perfect. In this article I’ll go over everything you need to know about online proctoring so that when it comes time for your next exam whether it be an essay test or multiple choice quiz you can make an informed decision about whether this method will work best for your needs and goals!

What is Online Proctoring?

Online proctoring is a system that allows students to take exams in a supervised environment. It is designed to prevent cheating, and it can be done in person or remotely through video conferencing. Online proctors are trained to ensure the integrity of your exam by observing the process from start to finish.

Online proctoring can either be done with a webcam or with a smartphone app. The app works on both iOS and Android devices, so if you have one of these devices available then you’re ready for online proctoring!

How Does Online Proctoring Work?

Online proctoring software uses a variety of machine learning algorithms to determine if a student is cheating. Some software will use facial recognition to watch for microexpressions and other small movements that indicate dishonesty, while others use voice recognition to hear if someone is whispering answers or speaking in code. The most advanced online proctoring services include both methods, which helps to ensure that no one can get away with cheating on their exam.

In addition to identifying dishonest behavior, online proctoring systems also allow students to access their tests remotely. This means they can take their exams whenever it’s convenient for them whether they’re at home or working remotely from another country without having to worry about missing an appointment.

What Types of Exams can Be Proctored by Machine Learning Algorithms?

It is important to note that online proctoring is not suitable for all types of exams. It may not be suitable for a final exam that requires an in-person proctor, or it may not be suitable for a course with sensitive material that does not allow students to access it outside of the classroom. Online proctoring can also be challenging when students are required to write answers on paper or sign off on their work in person with their instructor.

If you are looking for a way to ensure student readiness before beginning your exam and ensure that test takers have the proper knowledge base necessary to complete all tasks correctly, then online proctoring might be a viable option for you.

Why Are Universities Embracing Online Proctoring?

We’ve established that online proctoring is a valuable tool for students, but why is it important to universities?

  • Increased flexibility. Online proctoring means that students can take exams from anywhere at any time. This allows them to be more flexible with their schedules and not have to worry about missing an exam because of scheduling conflicts or other obligations.
  • Reduced costs. With live proctoring, there are additional costs associated with hiring someone who can monitor the student’s behavior and make sure they aren’t cheating on their test (e.g., paying for travel expenses for the proctor). Since these costs are eliminated when you use an automated system, your university will save money on live proctorships! This also means that students may not need as much financial aid because they won’t have as many restrictions regarding when they can take their exams or how often they can retake them without penalty.

Is online proctoring secure and effective?

In order for online proctoring to be effective, there must be a reliable internet connection with no interruptions. If the connection is slow or weak, the screen may go blank or freeze up at the worst possible moment right before you’re supposed to answer a question. If you have trouble with your computer or internet connection, ask your instructor for options that are possible for you and the exam you are taking.

What if my computer or internet connection isn’t reliable?

Most online proctoring services will allow you to reschedule your exam if something goes wrong with your computer or internet connection during your testing session. You should also expect that some additional work will be required on your part, like logging into another computer or submitting additional information about yourself.

Pros and Cons of Online Proctoring

Online proctoring is a great way to take tests. It allows you to take the test in a familiar environment, reduce your stress levels and make sure that you have everything you need to succeed.

Here are the Pros:

  • Familiarity. You know where everything is in your home or dorm room, so it’s easier to focus on the test than it would be if you were taking it somewhere unfamiliar. If you live far from campus and drive back and forth each day, this can be a huge advantage for your test-taking ability.
  • Less stress. Taking exams in an unfamiliar place can make it harder for students to focus on their work and get good scores on their tests. This is especially true when they’re taking an exam in a large lecture hall with hundreds of other people around them who are also trying to study at the same time. Online proctoring eliminates that problem entirely because there aren’t any other people around!
  • Saving time. Online proctoring services usually allow students to take their tests at their own pace during a set window of time (usually no more than two hours) so they don’t have to rush through an exam just so they can make sure it’s over by 11:59 p.m.. You can simply log into your account.

The Cons:

  • The proctor can’t see you if you have trouble hearing or following directions. This makes it hard for them to help you if you need it.
  • Online proctoring doesn’t allow for group exams or group projects, which is especially important in STEM fields where students often collaborate with each other on projects.
  • Some students may feel uncomfortable taking an exam in front of a stranger, especially if they have special needs or disabilities that make it hard for them to communicate effectively with other people (e.g., stuttering).

Online Proctoring is Here To Stay

Proctoring online exams is an evolving technology, and it’s important to know what you’re getting into before you jump in. But with all the benefits of proctoring by machine learning algorithms, we think it’s worth exploring if your school has this option available. Online proctoring is a great option for students who are concerned about their privacy, students who are on the go more often than not, and students who have other valid reasons to avoid the in-class proctoring experience.

The bottom line is that online proctoring is a growing trend that has already been adopted by a large number of institutions around the world, and is being embraced by even more. While online proctoring technology is not without its faults, it’s likely to continue developing in the coming years to improve its accuracy and reliability.

Average rating / 5. Vote count:

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.