Creating a stress-free environment during online proctored exams

The coronavirus pandemic became a paradigm-altering scenario for most education businesses. They shifted from the traditional offline model to a new online learning model. As a result, the industry experienced challenges in conducting exams fairly, which was resolved via remote AI-based proctoring.

However, while online exams offered secure exam content, easy grading, and streamlined results management, they increased participants' stress of being proctored. Many candidates taking online tests on a proctored platform felt uncomfortable with the technology that records their behavior and assesses their authenticity.

The remote proctoring solution help with video monitoring, browser locking, audio monitoring with voice detection, candidate ID verification, and exam reporting. Video monitoring ensures that applicants are not accessing any unauthorized materials during the exam. Browser locking prevents applicants from accessing other applications or websites. Audio monitoring and voice detection help detect any suspicious sounds or behavior. Candidate ID verification confirms the identity of the applicant. Exam reporting provides a detailed record of the exam session, including any suspicious activity detected by the proctoring software.

These features work together to create a secure and reliable testing environment for online exams.

Examinations are a primary method for assessment in most educational institutions. Therefore, many students experience exam anxiety causing them physiological and emotional discomfort.

Though online exams are convenient compared to offline exams, they may increase participant stress because online proctoring involves AI-based monitoring. Participants may feel apprehensive about the exam guidelines and experience fear of wrongly being accused of cheating or false methods.

Here are some of the challenges faced by candidates during online proctored exams:

1. Remote proctoring technology raises red flags for behaviors and cheating based on predefined parameters. However, this might lead to candidates worrying about being falsely accused of cheating.


2. Aspirants may find recording during online exams intrusive. Being filmed in their private space, under strict supervision, can lead to stress. Proctors may ask them to change their surroundings for better visibility, which may cause nervousness about completing the exam without challenges.


3. Candidates might be apprehensive about sharing their personal information (name, phone number, email id, and so on) during the test.


4. Candidates require a peaceful, solitary, and well-illuminated room to complete their online exams. Some don't have a personal computer and opt to use the ones provided by their institute in a shared setup. Others face difficulties finding a quiet space due to bustling living arrangements.


5. Sometimes, candidates with little software proficiency need help setting up online proctoring software. If the software setup is complicated, it can negatively impact their performance and cause frustration right before the exam.

Mercer | Mettl's remote proctoring solutions, SecureProctor and online exam platform with proctoring, utilize artificial intelligence to create a reliable and secure examination medium. They involve:

• Student authentication with multi-factor technology to prevent impersonation.


• Proctoring technology, including live proctoring, auto proctoring, and record and review proctoring, using a combination of human and AI-based methods.


• A secure exam browser that cleanses students' computers by disabling extra tabs, browsers, and external ports.

Online proctored exams are necessary in the digital-first world to create a secure and dependable way for candidate learning. However, many candidates experience stress during proctored exams. Clear communication regarding data usage policies, a guarantee of secure information storage, and technical support can help reduce nervousness around online exams.