Proctored Exams

Enhancing Integrity in Online Testing: Insights from Experts

Introduction: The Growing Importance of Integrity in Online Testing

As educational institutions increasingly shift towards online testing, the need for robust measures to maintain academic integrity has become a critical concern. During a recent panel session at the EDUCAUSE annual conference, experts from various institutions discussed the challenges and solutions surrounding integrity in online testing. This article delves into key insights from the session, enriched with expert perspectives and recommendations to ensure a trustworthy and effective online testing environment.

Panelists:

  • Jeremy Bond, Interim Director of eLearning, Central Michigan University
  • James Frazee, Sr. Academic Technology Officer & Director of Instructional Technology Services, San Diego State University
  • Jackie Crouch, Instructional Technologist, Canvas Trainer, & Quality Matters Certified Peer Reviewer, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
  • Arie Sowers, Sr. Product Specialist, Respondus, Inc.

The Transition to Online Testing: A Journey of Necessity and Innovation

Early Adoption in the Nursing Department

Jackie Crouch shared her institution’s journey, which began in the nursing department nearly a decade ago. The transition from traditional paper-based tests to online exams was driven by practical challenges, such as the extensive content covered in classes and the need to optimize classroom time. However, a snow day unexpectedly catalyzed the full shift to online testing. “An instructor called me, needing help to move a scheduled test online due to the weather. That moment marked our official entry into the world of online exams,” Jackie recalled.

Jeremy Bond added that despite students engaging in online coursework, exams were still administered in-person, often requiring inconvenient and costly travel to testing centers. The closure of their university’s testing center due to budget inefficiencies further pushed the institution to explore online proctoring solutions. “Students were understandably frustrated with the idea of traveling to take a test after studying online. It was clear that we needed a more seamless solution,” he explained.

Challenges in Online Testing: Cheating and Integrity Concerns

Maintaining integrity in online testing presents unique challenges. Arie Sowers highlighted common issues such as students hiring others to take exams on their behalf, sharing test questions, and searching for answers online. “These behaviors undermine the fairness and reliability of online assessments, and they are more difficult to detect than in traditional testing environments,” Arie noted.

Jackie Crouch pointed out that even in controlled classroom settings, proximity between students can lead to cheating. The increasing use of mobile devices during exams has only exacerbated this issue. “Ensuring academic honesty in both online and in-person exams is crucial, but it requires different strategies,” she emphasized.

Choosing the Right Online Proctoring Solution: Balancing Security and Convenience

When selecting an online proctoring solution, institutions must carefully consider the balance between security and user experience. Jeremy Bond described their process of evaluating various options, ultimately choosing Respondus Monitor. “We found that solutions relying on external proctors often resulted in faculty dismissing suspicious behavior due to a lack of direct observation. Respondus Monitor restored the natural authority of educators by providing them with the tools to review exam footage and make informed decisions,” he explained.

For James Frazee at San Diego State University, integration with the existing learning management system (LMS) was a top priority. “Our decision was driven by the need for simplicity and convenience. Respondus Monitor integrated seamlessly with our LMS, making it easy for both instructors and students to use,” he said. The institution had already been using Respondus LockDown Browser, which restricts students’ ability to navigate away from the exam, making Respondus Monitor a logical next step.

Jackie Crouch echoed these sentiments, adding that cost considerations were also crucial. “We initially implemented Respondus Monitor in a fully online degree program, where arranging for in-person proctors was both costly and logistically challenging. The success of this program led to broader adoption across our campus,” she remarked.

Budgeting for Online Proctoring: Who Bears the Cost?

The cost of online proctoring solutions is a significant factor in their adoption. Arie Sowers explained that institutions typically face a choice: either absorb the cost or pass it on to students. “Higher costs often lead to students bearing the financial burden, which can create access issues,” Arie warned.

At San Diego State University, James Frazee emphasized their commitment to maintaining access to resources without imposing additional fees on students. “Our Campus Fee Advisory Committee is hesitant to approve new fees, so we fund Respondus Monitor from our ITS budget. It’s an affordable solution compared to other enterprise technologies on campus,” he stated.

Jeremy Bond noted that centralized funding for Respondus Monitor at Central Michigan University has minimized financial challenges. “It’s treated as an enterprise solution and doesn’t require frequent budgetary reviews, making it a sustainable option,” he explained.

Jackie Crouch provided a cost-effective perspective, sharing that at UCCS, the average cost per test session was just 46 cents, making it an economically viable solution for the institution. “Faculty are pleased with the affordability and effectiveness of Respondus Monitor,” she added.

Strategies for Successful Rollout and Adoption

Effective implementation of online proctoring tools requires strategic planning and faculty support. James Frazee emphasized the importance of simplicity and convenience in encouraging faculty adoption. “Faculty want to focus on their content, not on navigating complex tools. Providing examples and success stories from peers can significantly boost adoption rates,” he advised.

Jackie Crouch shared a similar experience, where initial success with Respondus Monitor in one college led to widespread adoption across campus. “Word spread quickly, and more faculty started using the tool for their online tests. It became a standard part of our online testing strategy,” she recounted.

James Frazee also highlighted the importance of clear communication with students, recommending that faculty include boilerplate text in their syllabi to explain the use of online proctoring tools. “Framing the use of these tools as a way to ensure fairness and promote student success can help mitigate any negative perceptions,” he suggested.

Conclusion: The Future of Integrity in Online Testing

As online education continues to expand, maintaining integrity in online testing will remain a top priority for institutions. By carefully selecting and implementing online proctoring solutions, institutions can ensure that their assessments are both secure and fair, providing students with a trustworthy educational experience. The insights shared by experts in this panel session offer valuable guidance for institutions navigating this complex landscape.

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