Teaching & Innovation Blog

---

As education continues to shift towards more flexible learning modes, online test proctoring tools such as Proctorio and Respondus Monitor have become increasingly prevalent. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the inherent inequities associated with test proctoring and explore alternative assessment methods that foster inclusivity and fairness.  

Inequities of Test Proctoring 

Test proctoring can present inequities that disproportionately affect specific student populations. These include: 

• Technical Barriers: Online proctoring often requires specific hardware, stable internet connections, and compatible devices.  
• Bias and Discrimination: Automated proctoring tools use facial detection and behavior analysis and may perpetuate bias and discrimination.  
• Privacy Concerns: Students may feel uncomfortable being continuously monitored during testing or having their rooms scanned.  

Learn how to create more equitable and less anxious scenarios for your students by learning about Reducing Harm When Using Proctorio, or with any proctoring platform.

Alternative Assessment Strategies 

Instead of relying solely on proctored exams, faculty can explore alternative assessment methods that promote equity, engage students, and accurately measure learning outcomes. Here are a few examples: 

• Authentic Assessments: Assignments that reflect real-world scenarios, such as case studies, projects, or simulations, provide students with opportunities to demonstrate their understanding and apply knowledge in practical contexts. These assessments assess critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. 
• Open-Book Exams: Open-book exams encourage students to focus on higher-order thinking skills rather than memorization. Students can demonstrate their ability to synthesize information, analyze concepts, and apply them effectively by allowing access to course materials. 
• Collaborative Assessments: Group projects or collaborative assignments foster teamwork and communication skills while assessing students' ability to work collectively towards a shared goal. These assessments promote cooperation, enhance critical thinking, and encourage peer learning. 
• Reflection and Portfolios: Reflection-based assessments, such as journals, reflective essays, or e-portfolios, enable students to document their learning progress over time. These assessments encourage self-assessment, promote metacognition, and provide opportunities for self-reflection and growth. 

Accessibility & Equity Considerations 

Faculty should be mindful that students who fidget, move, leave the room, or move their eyes around the room may be flagged more often in proctoring software. In order to create more equity for these students, choose the fewest settings possible when setting up your exam and make sure to review all footage before making any assumptions about cheating. 

In addition, students with ADHD or chronic illnesses might need to move, stand, or leave the room, or those who are low vision and need to move their eyes or do not have motor control over their eyes may be flagged more. It is important to remember that students with disabilities aren't cheating more, it is just that these systems are limited in their ability to accurately and equitably assess some students with disabilities. If you have questions or concerns, you can always reach out to our Disability Resources & Services Office at disabilityresources@ucdenver.edu. 

Test proctoring tools have become widely used in online education but come with inherent inequities. Faculty should critically examine these tools and consider alternative assessment strategies prioritizing inclusivity, fairness, and student engagement. 

If you decide to use Respondus Monitor and would like assistance, please schedule a 1-on-1 consultation with the academic technology team.