Online proctoring process for distance-based testing

Abstract

A system for enabling real time live proctoring of an exam across a distributed network includes a first remote computer. The first remote computer is capable of real time audio visual capture and display of an image of a user of the first remote computer. A second remote computer is capable of real time audio visual capture and display of an image of the user of the second remote computer. A server is in communication with the first remote computer and the second remote computer, and provides an interactive web based scheduling portal accessible from the first remote computer and the second remote computer. A database is associated with the server for storing data regarding the rules for proctoring of an exam including the rate at which an exam may be proctored at a given date and time. The server enables access to a virtual exam room by the first remote computer and the second remote computer in response to a request from the first remote computer through the scheduling portal for a date and time to take an exam administered at the first computer when the requested date and time fulfils the rules stored in the database.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 295,508 filed on Jan. 15, 2010 in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]This invention is directed to a system and method for proctoring an exam, and more particularly, for remotely proctoring an exam across a distributed network.[0003]Since the invention of the classroom, their have been exams to determine how well a student has learned the subject matter. With the advent of large classes, and written exams, the monitoring (proctoring) of exams has been a necessity. As well known in the art, teachers, and then later professional proctors, remain in the classroom to observe the exam taking procedure to prevent false results through cheating. This in person proctoring of exams has been satisfactory for use in conventional education environments. However, the advent of distance learning by educational institutions such as Andrew Jackson University, the University...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The invention is a system for remote proctoring, which allows for secure and efficient testing of students. The system includes a log in portal for students, a scheduling screen, a reservation interface, and a collection of proctor reports. The system also includes an administrator screen for setting exam parameters and a cancellation report. The technical effects of the invention include improved security, flexibility, and accessibility for proctors and students, as well as streamlined exam administration."

Problems solved by technology

However, the advent of distance learning by educational institutions such as Andrew Jackson University, the University of Phoenix and others have made it impracticable to personally monitor each student taking an exam because without the commonality of the physical classroom, the students are too widely disbursed.

Those institutions who had tried to solve the problem approached the situation with a high level of automation and the lowest level of human interaction possible making the system rife for fraud.

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