What Is Online proctoring & How Does It Work?

Summary

Online proctoring is a technology that uses software and services to prevent cheating during tests and support test takers. It has evolved to include features like browser lock, video monitoring, identity verification, and sound detection. Advanced options can detect cell phones, block browser extensions, and automatically find leaked test questions. There are various types of proctoring, including basic, AI-only, live, and blended (AI with human oversight), each with its pros and cons. Blended proctoring stands out as cost-effective, efficient, and less intrusive, offering a win-win solution for institutions looking to enhance the test-taking experience and reshape online learning.

Takeaways

• 🔐 **Online Proctoring Basics**: It involves using software and services to prevent cheating on tests and support test takers.
• 🔍 **Advanced Features**: Some platforms can detect cell phones, block browser extensions, find leaked test questions, and detect voices.
• 📊 **Pros and Cons**: Each type of proctoring has its advantages and disadvantages, making it important to choose the right solution for specific needs.
• 💰 **Cost Considerations**: Cheaper software like browser lockdown may not effectively prevent cheating, as it lacks comprehensive features.
• 🤖 **AI-Only Proctoring**: Uses artificial intelligence for 24/7 monitoring, but lacks human oversight and may generate many false flags.
• 👀 **Live Proctoring**: Involves a human proctor watching multiple test takers, which can be distracting and may miss some cheating behaviors.
• 💸 **Costly Live Proctoring**: Can be expensive with additional costs for extended test durations.
• 🤝 **Blended Proctoring**: Combines AI with human proctors, providing effective monitoring with cost efficiency and reduced false flags.
• ⏰ **24/7 Availability**: Blended proctoring is available around the clock, saving time for test administrators.
• 🌟 **Transformative Potential**: Online proctoring is an opportunity to reshape the test-taking experience and transform online learning.

Q & A

What is online proctoring and what does it aim to do?

Online proctoring, also known as remote proctoring, is the use of software and services to prevent cheating on tests and to support test takers. It has evolved to include various tools and features to ensure the integrity of online assessments.

What are the basic features offered by most online proctoring platforms?

Most online proctoring platforms offer basic features such as browser lock, video monitoring, identity verification, and sound detection to prevent cheating during tests.

What advanced capabilities do some proctoring platforms have that go beyond the basics?

Some advanced proctoring platforms can detect cell phones, block browser extensions, automatically find leaked test questions, and differentiate between voices and other sounds to enhance cheating prevention.

What are the pros and cons of each type of online proctoring?

The pros of different proctoring types include cost-effectiveness, 24/7 availability, and the ability to deter cheating. The cons can include lack of human oversight, potential for false flags, and the intrusiveness of live monitoring.

Why might browser lockdown software not be the most effective at preventing cheating?

Browser lockdown software might not be the most effective at preventing cheating because it does not prevent test takers from using cell phones and other resources during tests.

How does AI-only proctoring work and what are its limitations?

AI-only proctoring uses artificial intelligence to monitor behavior during tests. It is available 24/7 and can detect and deter cheating. However, it lacks human oversight, which can lead to a high number of false flags that require review.

What is live proctoring and what are its potential drawbacks?

Live proctoring involves a human proctor watching multiple test takers simultaneously. The potential drawbacks include the intrusiveness of being watched, the risk of a proctor missing problematic behavior due to the number of test takers being monitored, and the potential for additional costs if tests exceed the allotted hours.

What is blended proctoring and how does it combine AI with human oversight?

Blended proctoring uses artificial intelligence to monitor test takers, alerting a live proctor if potential cheating is detected. The proctor then reviews the situation and intervenes only if necessary, providing a balance between technology and human judgment.

Why is blended proctoring considered cost-effective and efficient for test administrators?

Blended proctoring is cost-effective and efficient because it is available 24/7 and only requires test administrators to review important flags, thus saving time and reducing the need for constant human oversight.

How can online proctoring reshape the test-taking experience for institutions?

Online proctoring can reshape the test-taking experience by offering a range of tools and services that not only prevent cheating but also enhance the overall integrity and efficiency of online learning and assessment processes.