Picture this: you’re about to proctor one of your biggest tests yet. As you set up the room, you might wonder what does a proctored exam look like in practice.
Let’s walk through the steps you’ll take and the setting your students will see. By the end, you’ll know exactly how both in-person and online proctoring unfold. If you’re planning a proctored exam, you’ll feel confident on test day.
A proctored exam involves an invigilator supervising students throughout the test to ensure academic integrity. You’ve got clear rules on allowed materials, timing, seating, breaks, and expected behavior. You might use in-person proctoring or remote supervision, depending on your needs.
Proper exam supervision upholds academic integrity, which is non negotiable in higher education. A consistent process deters cheating attempts and reassures students of fairness. Plus, standardized oversight simplifies reporting, streamlines audit trails, and eases accreditation reviews for your department.
In-person exams take place in a controlled room, like a lecture hall or testing center. You’ll arrange desks in rows, enforce seating charts, and set clear signage for allowed materials. Entry checks include ID verification, bag inspection, and a quick tech scan for approved calculators or devices.
Your proctors guide students through rules, monitor for suspicious behavior, and handle questions. They track time, distribute materials according to your guidelines, and then collect tests promptly once the clock stops. Afterward, they file a report detailing any irregularities, following your institution’s detailed policies.
Online proctoring demands a stable internet connection, a functioning webcam, and a clear microphone. You’ll select a compatible browser and install any required browser extensions or apps. Candidates typically verify their identity through government ID scans, and optional facial recognition checks.
Remote proctoring can be live, recorded, or AI assisted. In a live session, proctors watch video feeds in real time. Recorded sessions store footage for later review, while AI tools flag suspicious activity.
Students log in at their scheduled time, complete an environment check, and agree to a terms-of-use screen. They might need to show a 360 degree room scan on camera. Then they launch the exam software and proceed under the chosen supervision method.
Here’s a quick comparison of in-person and online proctoring features.
| Feature | In-person Proctoring | Online Proctoring |
|---|---|---|
| Proctor presence | On-site supervisor | Remote monitor via video |
| Environment control | Dedicated testing center | Student’s personal space |
| Verification | ID check at entry | Webcam identity scan |
| Technical needs | Basic AV setup | Stable internet, compatible hardware |
Arrange desks to maintain clear sight lines, enforce spacing rules, and minimize distraction. Use seating charts or randomized software assignments when possible to spread out students fairly. Clearly mark exits, bathrooms, and the proctor desk for student reference.
You’ll need extra pens, scantron sheets, calculators, and clocks visible to everyone. Have backup devices charged and ready, plus extra extension cords or power strips nearby. Keep ID badges, sign-in sheets, spare seating charts, and a quick reference of exam rules on hand.
Test your Wi-Fi, proctoring software, and power systems well before start time. Plan for a mobile hotspot or offline exam version in case of outages. Share emergency contact info, including IT helpdesk and facility services, with your proctors and tech support team.
Connectivity drops and browser crashes are common during online exams, so plan ahead. Have a clear protocol for reconnecting, restoring sessions, or switching to an approved offline mode. Proctors should monitor system alerts and call tech support at the first sign of trouble.
Cheating tactics range from hidden notes and unauthorized devices to student collusion. Use clear signage, regular proctor walkabouts, and random seating swaps to deter misconduct. Online, AI assisted flags, live chat interventions, and recorded footage all serve as powerful deterrents.
Students with approved accommodations need extra time, separate rooms, or quiet spaces. Plan these arrangements well in advance, and confirm details with each student and proctor. Ensure technology and proctoring tools support any required assistive software, screen readers, or adaptive hardware.
