Exam proctoring is the practice of an authorised person overseeing examinations to ensure fairness. This practice is used by governments, universities, and other institutions that administer or evaluate a test. Exam proctors watch over a test taker’s examination during the process so they can intervene if necessary. Some proctors are employed by testing companies while others oversee exams on their own as independent contractors.
What is Online Exam Proctoring?
Online exam proctoring is a process that ensures the integrity of online exams by monitoring and supervising test-takers remotely. It involves the use of technology to prevent cheating and maintain a fair testing environment. Proctoring systems use various methods to monitor students during an online exam. A candidate may choose to have their exam proctored in-person, by phone, or online using an internet connection with remote video capability such as Skype or FaceTime. Exam proctors normally work in a central location such as the proctoring centre and then travel to examine students during the testing process.
Some companies offer proctor exams for a fee. Others are staffed by exam takers themselves who want to earn extra money for their time. Either way, the candidates must provide the company with their specific test instructions and must ensure that no one else watches over their test in order to maintain fairness.
How to choose the right proctoring system?
The process of selecting an appropriate remote proctoring system is a tough job that warrants a meticulous evaluation across an array of vital factors. To make an informed decision that impeccably aligns with your institution’s or organisation’s unique requirements, it is essential to delve into the intricacies of the following critical considerations:
Security and Privacy
A Fortress for Data: The primary concern in any online exam proctoring system is the security it offers. Ensure that the system you choose provides strong security measures. These should encompass data encryption, strict access controls, and compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR or HIPAA. The objective is to safeguard sensitive information while maintaining the privacy of both administrators and test-takers. Efficient customer support is an option when dealing with any technology solution. Ensure that the proctoring system provider offers reliable customer support. This should include readily available technical assistance as well as comprehensive training programs tailored for administrators and proctors.
Compatibility
Seamless Integration: Compatibility is pivotal for a harmonious experience. Assess the extent to which the proctoring system aligns with your existing learning management system (LMS) or online testing platform. A seamless integration is indispensable to minimise technical disruptions and streamline the exam-taking process. Opt for a proctoring system that effortlessly collaborates with widely used LMSs such as Moodle, Canvas, or Blackboard. Before using any system always Verify whether the proctoring system is in compliance with relevant industry and educational regulations. This could include adherence to legal frameworks like the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act or compliance with European Higher Education Area standards. Ensuring compliance is imperative to uphold legal and ethical standards.
User-Friendliness
A User-Centric Approach: The usability of the system is paramount. Both administrators and test-takers should find the system simple. Administrators should be able to set up exams, monitor sessions, and access reports with ease. Similarly, test-takers should navigate the system without encountering unnecessary complexities, ensuring a positive and efficient exam-taking experience. So always try to seek out user feedback and reviews pertaining to the proctoring system from other institutions or organisations that have previously utilised it. This invaluable insight can provide a comprehensive understanding of the system’s performance and reliability in real-world scenarios.
Reliability
A Steadfast Foundation: Reliability stands as the cornerstone during online exams. Seek a proctoring system equipped with a resilient infrastructure capable of accommodating high volumes of concurrent users without encountering crashes or downtime. Frequent system failures can disrupt exams, erode trust, and compromise the integrity of the online assessment process. The nature of your exams should dictate the choice of proctoring methods. Assess the proctoring methods offered by the system and select one that harmonises with your specific exam requirements. Some assessments may necessitate live proctoring with human invigilators, while others can be effectively monitored using AI-based solutions.
Anti-Cheating Measures
The Guardian Against Cheating: The effectiveness of anti-cheating measures is a critical consideration. Seek a proctoring system that deploys advanced anti-cheating mechanisms. These should encompass the detection of unauthorised devices, browser extensions, or virtual machines. Additionally, AI-based behaviour analysis should be capable of identifying even the most subtle indicators of suspicious behaviour. The proctoring system should cater to all test-takers, including those with disabilities. It should adhere to accessibility standards, offering features such as screen reader compatibility and keyboard navigation to guarantee equitable access for all.
Scalability
Ready for Growth: Scalability is important for future planning. If your institution or organisation expects an expansion of its online examination system, the proctoring system should possess the scalability to accommodate a growing number of users and exams without necessitating significant modifications to the existing infrastructure. Always be aware that some systems charge on a per-exam basis, while others may adopt subscription-based models. Consider the total cost of ownership, including any hidden fees, and align it with your financial constraints and budgetary parameters.
Customization and Reporting
Fine-Tuning for Precision: Examine the extent to which the system allows for customization of proctoring rules to suit your precise exam requirements. Furthermore, consider the robustness of the reporting features. These features are invaluable for conducting in-depth analysis of exam results and identifying potential issues or areas for improvement.
Conclusion
The process of selecting the ideal online exam proctoring system is a multifaceted journey that demands a deep and thorough exploration of the multitude of factors we’ve explored. Choosing the right online exam proctoring system necessitates a meticulous examination of these multifaceted factors. A well-informed choice not only safeguards the integrity of your online exams but also enhances the overall experience for both administrators and test-takers. Ultimately, such a choice contributes significantly to the success of your institution’s or organisation’s online education or testing program.
To get more information, please visit Mercer | Mettl. Mercer | Mettl provides dedicated customer support and technical assistance to ensure a seamless remote proctoring experience for both administrators and test-takers.