Proctoring software is designed to prevent cheating during online exams. These solutions monitor a wide array of student activities, including screen content, identity verification, and web traffic.
Proctoring Tools and Methods
ProctorU, Prometric, PSI, and Pearson VUE are among the notable providers offering online proctoring services with features such as:
- Monitoring screen activities, including screen mirroring detection
- Offering identity verification by checking documents and photos
- Recording sessions to review students’ actions
- Monitoring movement, audio, and desktop activities
In addition to real-time monitoring, services like Proctorio and Honorlock take screenshots and record web traffic during exams to ensure test integrity. They no longer access information after the exam is completed.
Unique Examination Methods
The LOFT (Linear On-the-Fly Testing) process provides a unique and individualized exam experience, further securing the examination against cheating attempts. Proctors are also available to assist with technical issues and offer support.
Proctored Exam Experience
Proctors have the capability to view and control the examinee’s screen and inputs before the exam begins. However, once the exam starts, proctors can only monitor the on-screen activities. They cannot use the test taker’s mouse and keyboard during this time.
It is important to note that proctoring software like ProctorU and Examity cannot prevent cheating conducted through a virtual machine. Additionally, the edX mobile app does not support taking proctored exams.
Privacy and Security
ProctorU adheres to the Australian Privacy Principles and Privacy Act to maintain transparency in processing user information from Australia.
What Proctors Can Detect
Proctors are equipped with software that can detect various forms of cheating such as:
- Screen mirroring to access unauthorized information
- Abnormalities during an exam that may indicate potential problems, alerting live proctors to intervene
For more details on their proctoring services and to check for the availability of online exam proctoring, it is advised to visit the websites of Prometric, PSI, and Pearson VUE.