Online proctored exams are a becoming a bigger part of universities, but not every student is in favor of being under the scope.
Proctoring sources such as Examity and Respondus Monitor are becoming more invasive with each semester. These sites monitor your computer by having access to your screen and other restrictions.
“Even after I graduated, I still dealt with issues with my computer settings that the proctor changed after I gave them, a stranger, remote control of my entire computer.” – Harper Warr, Auburn University Graduate
The set-up process for getting registered for an exam can also be time consuming and cause anxiety.
“No, I would not recommend a proctored exam,” said Avery Wassilchak, University of North Georgia graduate student.
These exams are an easy source for professors, but it is costing students their privacy.
“The reason it felt invasive is because someone was watching me take my test most of the time or at the very least, I had to give them control of my computer. I was forced to show my entire room, which at the time was my college apartment,” said Warr.
According to the Examity site, they have a review of 3.1 out of 5 stars, with most reviews describing the site as “frustrating.”
“It was fine for the most part, time consuming to get it all set up though,” said Gracie Martin, UNG senior.
College costs include testing; however, an additional fee is added when using Examity. Students think this should be included in the beginning course cost so that they know what they must prepare and pay for.
While proctored exams are required for online courses and should be expected by students, the privacy of these sites might need to be updated. While some online proctors monitor test-taking without making a disturbance, others frequently ask for room scans and verifications throughout the exam time.
“I would not recommend an online course to anyone due to the exam taking process. I would much rather take an in-person exam,” said Warr.
Students with test anxiety or looking to save money can take an in-person class or use UNG’s free testing center.
