There is a lot of concern about proctoring software being able to see students’ screens. Can they see the websites that we are visiting? What if we are studying for a test and the software catches us?
In this article, we will answer these questions and more. We will also discuss how to protect your privacy when using proctoring software.
What Is Proctoring Software and What Does It Do?
Proctoring software is a type of monitoring software that is used to record and monitor students during online exams. The software is typically used to prevent cheating, but it can also be used for other purposes, such as detecting academic dishonesty.
In addition, it can help to detect any technical issues that may arise during recording or monitoring.
Proctoring software is usually used in online courses or exams, but it can also be used in face-to-face settings. For example, some universities implement ProctorEdu online proctoring software to record lectures and labs.
So Can Proctoring Software See My Screen?
The answer is yes; proctoring software can see your screen. It even can potentially record everything that you are doing on the computer. This includes the websites that you are visiting, the files that you are opening, and the programs that you are using.
However, it is important to note that the software may not be recording everything all the time. For example, most proctoring software only starts recording when you start the exam.
There are also different types of proctoring software, and each type has different features. Some proctoring software only allows the instructor to monitor you, others to record your webcam video, the third ones are able to take screenshots.
If you are concerned about privacy, it is important to know which type of proctoring software will be used during your exam. You should also ask whether the recordings will be monitored in real-time or if they will be reviewed after the exam.
How Does Proctoring Software Work?
Proctoring software typically uses a webcam to record videos of the student taking the exam. The software may also record audio through the microphone. In some cases, the software may take screenshots of the student’s screen or record the activity on the computer.
The video and audio recordings are typically stored on a secure server. In some cases, the recordings may be monitored in real-time by a proctor or instructor. In other cases, the recordings may be reviewed after the exam.
Proctoring software may also use other methods to detect cheating. For example, the software may track the movement of the mouse or the position of the webcam. The software may also analyze the video recordings to look for suspicious behavior.
Some proctoring software also has features that can block certain websites or programs from being accessed during an exam. For example, if you are taking a test on Microsoft Word, the proctoring software may block access to other word processing programs such as Google Docs.
Is Using Proctoring Software Against My Rights?
Using proctoring software does not violate your rights. In fact, most universities clearly state in their student handbooks that students are expected to comply with measures to ensure academic integrity. Therefore, if you are attending an online university that requires proctoring, you are agreeing to these terms when you enroll.
Additionally, many proctoring software programs give students the option to opt out if they feel uncomfortable.
How to Protect My Privacy When Using Proctoring Software
If you are concerned about privacy, there are a few things that you can do to protect your information:
- First, you should check the privacy policy of the proctoring software to see how your information will be used and shared.
- You should also ask your instructor or proctor if they will be able to see your screen during the exam. If they say yes, you may want to consider using a different type of proctoring software that does not record your screen.
- Finally, you can try to minimize the amount of information that is being recorded by closing any unnecessary programs or tabs before starting the exam.
Alternatives to Proctoring Software
If you are totally against your screen being recorded, there are a few alternatives that you can consider.
- One option is to take your exam in a face-to-face setting. This will allow you to avoid using proctoring software altogether.
- Another option is to use a proctoring service that does not record your screen. This type of service typically uses human proctors instead of software to monitor exams.
- Finally, you can ask your instructor if you can take the exam offline. This option is not available for all exams, but it may be possible in some cases.
Conclusion
Proctoring software is a useful tool for preventing cheating and academic dishonesty. However, it is important to be aware of the potential privacy implications of using this type of software. By understanding how proctoring software works and taking steps to protect your privacy, you can help to ensure that your information is safe.
