6 Common Ways Students Cheat in Online Proctored Exams: What Institutions Need to Know

6 Common Ways Students Cheat in Online Proctored Exams: What Institutions Need to Know

As online exams become more common, students are finding new ways to cheat despite proctoring software. Here are six common methods and how institutions can stay ahead of these tactics:

1. Using a Virtual Machine: Some students set up a virtual machine on their computer to run two operating systems at the same time. This allows them to take the exam in one window while searching for answers in another. Institutions can counter this by using proctoring software that detects and prevents virtual machines.
2. Screen Mirroring: Students may use screen mirroring to duplicate their screen on another device, allowing someone else to see the exam and help them with answers. To prevent this, proctoring tools should monitor and block screen mirroring during the test.
3. Fake Webcam Feeds: Instead of showing their real-time exam environment, some students use software to display a pre-recorded video or a different screen as their webcam feed. Institutions can stop this by ensuring that proctoring software checks for continuous, live video streams.
4. Using Mobile Phones: Even with computer monitoring, students might use their mobile phones to look up answers. They could hide the phone outside the webcam’s view or use it under the table. To combat this, proctors should ask students to show their entire workspace, including under the desk, before the exam begins.
5. External Assistance: Some students may have someone else in the room, off-camera, who can help them with the test. This can be prevented by asking students to do a full room scan with their webcam before starting the exam and using software that can detect multiple voices or unusual background noises.
6. Plagiarism: In essay-based exams, students might copy content from the internet or other sources. Institutions can use plagiarism detection software to identify copied content and ensure that students are submitting their own work.

How Institutions Can Prevent Cheating

To minimize cheating during online exams, institutions should:

• Use advanced proctoring software that monitors the student’s environment, detects suspicious activities, and prevents access to unauthorized tools.
• Require a thorough check of the student’s surroundings and devices before the exam begins.
• Train proctors to recognize signs of cheating and take immediate action.
• Implement strict rules about the use of electronic devices and the exam environment.

By understanding these methods and taking proactive steps, institutions can help maintain the integrity of online exams and ensure that all students are fairly assessed.