An online proctoring system is a technology-based service that allows exams to be supervised remotely. It ensures academic integrity outside of a traditional classroom setting. It acts as a virtual invigilator, using a student's own computer, webcam, and microphone. All this resources are to monitor the test-taking environment and behavior. The primary goal of any online proctoring solution is to verify student identity and prevent cheating.
These systems function through a multi-step process that typically begins before the exam even starts. First, the student must verify their identity by showing a government- or school-issued ID to the webcam. Next, the system performs an environment check, requiring the student to pan their camera around the room to show that their desk and immediate surroundings are clear of unauthorized materials like notes, textbooks, or a second monitor. Once the exam begins, the proctoring system uses a combination of AI and sometimes human review to monitor the session. The AI algorithm tracks the student's behavior, flagging potential red flags such as the student's face moving out of the camera frame, unusual eye movements. Some behavior might suggest looking at a hidden screen, the presence of another person in the room.
There are generally three main types of online proctoring:
Live Proctoring:
Live proctoring, where a human proctor watches students in real-time via webcam;
Recorded proctoring
Where the AI and webcam record the entire session for a proctor to review later if an incident is flagged.
Automated proctoring
Which relies solely on AI to flag anomalies without a human present unless a review is triggered.
For the student, the experience involves using a secure browser that locks down the computer, preventing access to other applications, websites, or the ability to copy and paste. Understanding how these systems work helps demystify the process, allowing students to prepare their space and technology appropriately for a smooth testing experience.