Online Proctoring: A Complete Guide

Technology, as everyone can see, has evolved considerably over the past few decades, giving us myriad gifts. But perhaps one of the most crucial has been digital education, which has helped make education and knowledge accessible to everyone. But for it to be beneficial, there’s yet another tool we need: Online proctoring, i.e., monitoring candidates online while they appear for exams.

Here’s a guide to help you understand what makes them so crucial to the process of online education.

Online proctoring types:

a. Live online: As the name suggests, this involves the online proctor monitoring the exam online in real-time. As long as both parties have a working device with an internet connection, camera, and mic, this type of proctoring is possible. It is also famous owing to the fact that it is entirely scalable and doesn’t burn a hole in the institute’s pockets.

b. Record and review: This one fares relatively high on agility since it involves recording the session, which is then later reviewed by an invigilator. This type is unsuitable for high-stakes exams, in any case.

c. Testing kiosk: Better suited for the post-pandemic world, this one involves an exam administrator. It is for setting up a physical mobile test kiosk from where the test taker can connect with the invigilator and then appear for the exam. Once the administrator meets the candidate in person and verifies their identity, the remaining process, i.e., the test, is administered under the supervision of the online proctor. It must be noted that this type of online proctoring needs additional infrastructure, including HD cameras, scanners for ID cards, and relevant software.

Online proctored exams: The how

1. The students sign in with relevant details.

2. Students must provide ID proof for authorization, which is verified via facial recognition.

3. The web camera is powered on when the exam starts. Proctor can communicate with students via an instant messaging facility.

4. Advanced systems raise red flags if unusual behavior is detected. The proctor decides the next step.

5. Once the scheduled time frame is complete, the exam is automatically submitted.

Benefits:

1. Save costs: Costs are, of course, a key concern for most educational institutions. With online proctoring, they can save sizable costs since there is no need for putting together an invigilation team or even fret over the logistics. And with an advanced enough system, institutes can also save the time and effort associated with the evaluation of tests.

2. Prevent cheating: Of course, this is the primary goal and suffice it to say that it is amply tended to with online proctoring. The software ensures that students are closely and continuously monitored throughout the exam, starting from when they first sign in. It makes sure the scope for cheating by students is effectively dealt with.

It is clear to see that for any online examination solution to be effective and help gauge students’ proper performance; online proctoring is a must! And with the COVID-19 pandemic still raging on, embracing this novel tool seems like the most effective strategy.