Online Exam Proctoring by

Introduction

niccoote — 2023-12-10 17:01:42 UTC

The Covid-19 pandemic expedited the adoption of distance learning, particularly the version that utilizes technology, as stated by Hussein et al (2020). The implementation of online exam proctoring was a logical outcome of the introduction of online educational courses. However, while it was necessary at the time, it now raises significant concerns about the academic integrity of this approach, as highlighted by Hussein et al (2020). In this article, I will analyze the various forms of online proctoring, the four crucial prerequisites of online proctoring systems and software, as well as the issues that arise regarding the legitimacy of online proctoring. In fact, Hollister and Berenson (2009) stated that, “the most commonly reported challenge in online assessment is how to maintain academic integrity”.

Types of Online Proctoring

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To proctor an exam, verifying identification is necessary. One can do so through face recognition, key-stroke analysis, or presenting proof of identity documents (Gautam, 2017). Once the identity is confirmed, the room is inspected to make sure there are no red-flag features, such as the presence of other individuals. Subsequently, the software is activated to restrict the use of the computer for purposes other than the exam. Then, for the remainder of the exam period, one of the following types of proctoring is utilized, as explained by Hussein (2020):

Live proctoring

A proctor is responsible for monitoring students remotely and in real-time during their exams. They have been trained to detect any irregular facial expressions, gestures, or unauthorized use of electronic devices. However, from a human resources standpoint, finding a suitable time and date for the exam with human supervision can be challenging. Additionally, the proctor must maintain a high level of alertness for several hours.

Recording proctoring

The exam is recorded in its entirety, with the student being captured on camera throughout. After the exam, the recording is carefully scrutinized to ensure that no cheating occurred before the grades are released. This system allows students to take the exam at their convenience, but it does demand a significant amount of human resources to review all the footage.

Automated proctoring

The process entails identifying suspicious occurrences using AI, which are then reviewed by a human proctor, thereby reducing the requirement for human resources. The system may generate false incident claims depending on its sensitivity, however, it is a more cost-effective and scalable option compared to alternative methods.

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Major Requirments of Online Proctoring Systems

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1) Internet connection

2) System to verify student identity

3) Recording device

4) Integrity monitoring

Integrity

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I conducted a small focus group of first and second-year residents. They unanimously noted that online proctoring was susceptible to cheating. Many studies support this, Holden et al. (2021) noting that 41% of students admitted to cheating in some form in an online class.

Preference

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In Allesio and Messinger (2021) a mere 2% of students in one survey preferred online proctoring and 70% of students felt it was an invasion of their privacy

Opinion Piece- "Let them cheat"

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Online Proctoring Reduces Cheating

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References

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Alessio, H. M., & Messinger, J. D. (2021). Faculty and Student Perceptions of Academic Integrity in Technology-Assisted Learning and Testing. Frontiers in Education, 6, 629220. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2021.629220

Gautam, M. (2017, December 20). 3 types of online proctoring services and how to select the best for hiring. Hackerearth. Retrieved from https://www.hackerearth.com/blog/talent-assessment/online-proctoring-for-hiring-developer

Holden, O. L., Norris, M. E., & Kuhlmeier, V. A. (2021, July). Academic integrity in online assessment: A research review. In Frontiers in Education (Vol. 6, p. 639814). Frontiers Media SA.

Hollister, K. K., & Berenson, M. L. (2009). Proctored versus unproctored online exams: Studying the impact of exam environment on student performance. Decision Sciences Journal of Innovative Education, 7(1), 271-294.

Hussein, M. J., Yusuf, J., Deb, A. S., Fong, L., & Naidu, S. (2020). An evaluation of online proctoring tools. Open Praxis, 12(4), 509-525.

Nicole Pendleton ECUR 837 Dec 15/2023

niccoote — 2023-12-11 22:10:07 UTC

I am a 4th year neurosurgery resident. My career aspirations include becoming proficient in a wide variety effective teaching strategies that help me to become a role model and mentor in my field.

The Basics

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