Making Sense of G2 Ratings for Online Proctoring

G2's ratings of the best online proctoring in 2023

G2 is the largest and most trusted peer-to-peer software review site with about 80 million people each year and over 2.2 million authentic reviews.

Two important words to remember from above: authentic reviews

Companies can’t buy their way to the top. Reviews can’t be influenced or manipulated. They have serious review validation processes to make sure of it. G2 is the go-to for real reviews that compare online proctoring software and services. The reviews include ratings of more generalized topics, like ease of use and meeting requirements, and they cover specific proctoring features and functionality. This article will give you context about the specific features and functionality and why they’re so important if you’re comparing proctoring software and services. See a breakdown of the ratings here.

ID verification

Verifies that the person taking the proctored exam is the person getting credit.

Obviously, you want to know that the person taking the proctored exam is the person getting credit for it. While most online proctoring platforms have ID verification, they aren’t the same. Some are quick and simple. Others are time-consuming and invasive.

Consider these questions as you’re comparing online proctoring software:

Honorlock’s ID verification captures a picture of the test-taker and their photo ID and ensures the name on the ID matches the name in the LMS in about a minute. No facial recognition. That’s it.

ID verification ratings

Browser lockdown

Blocks access to other browsers and software.

If you’re only using browser lockdown software to proctor online exams, you’re essentially just locking your windows but leaving your doors wide open.

Meaning that only locking the browser won’t really prevent cheating. If a test taker has a cell phone, they can get around it.

But a browser lock is still an important part of a larger solution. And instructors may even want to allow access to certain sites while blocking all others. For example, allowing access to course notes or an online study, while blocking all other sites. Some allow that, some don’t. Make sure the solution’s browser locking is customizable.

Honorlock’s Browser Guard, which is just one component of a comprehensive proctoring solution, is customizable to block all sites and software or allow the ones you want, and it prevents keyboard shortcuts like copying and pasting.

Browser lockdown software ratings

Video recording

Records test takers’ behavior during the proctored exam session.

Video recording is a staple of proctoring, but it’s important to understand how it’s done and how it’s used.

Do you only want behavior recorded to watch later? Or do you want AI to monitor behavior during the exam, record it, and you’ll just watch the important behaviors that need your attention?

Honorlock’s AI uses the webcam to monitor and record behavior. If the AI detects suspicious behavior during the exam, it alerts a live proctor to review and intervene if necessary. After the exam is over, instructors and admins get a report with proctor-verified violations and can access time-stamped video recordings in full HD quality (many proctoring services only provide SD).

Video recording ratings

Automatic behavior flagging

Uses AI or algorithms to automatically flag test takers’ behavior.

This is one part of online proctoring that separates the best from the rest.

From cell phone detection and video monitoring to sound detection and room scans, there are many AI proctoring tools to consider that impact the entire experience for all users.

Some AI proctoring software will flag almost anything.

Sneezing – flag.

Talking to themselves – flag.

Looking away from the screen while thinking – flag.

These distract test takers and create more work for administrators during exam reviews. But Honorlock’s approach avoids distractions and extra work. Powerful AI monitors behavior and alerts a live proctor if it detects suspicious behavior. The proctor can review the behavior and decide whether to intervene or not. If the behavior isn’t problematic, the proctor won’t intervene and administrators can skip it when they review.

AI behavior flagging ratings

Live proctors

A live human proctor is available for an exam session.

Which option would you prefer?

Option 1: There’s a box on your screen of a proctor watching you take an exam

Option 2: No box with a stranger watching you take your exam, and you’ll only interact with a proctor via chat if there’s any behavior that needs to be addressed

Most would choose Option 2 because it isn’t creepy and distracting… And that’s the approach Honorlock uses. You’ll also want to consider what the interactions are like between test takers and proctors. Honorlock’s full-time online proctoring team received training from a nationally certified counselor and educator on providing help and support during moments of test anxiety and frustration. This helps create a better test environment that reduces anxiety and allows test takers to focus.

Live proctoring ratings

Test session reports

Reports containing details about test taker behaviors and suspicious activities.

Test reports can save admins a lot of time… or waste a lot of time.

If you want to save time, make sure that the reports are:

Honorlock’s exam reports save time and make the review process simple. After proctored exams are complete, instructors/admins can access in-depth reports with time-stamped recordings within the LMS dashboard. Reports include test taker violations and notable or suspicious behaviors/activities. In addition, proctors will send a detailed email to test administrators about suspicious behavior observed.

Proctored exam reports ratings

Online proctoring dashboard

A dashboard to view exam trends and overall usage.

How can you monitor proctoring utilization across the institution? How do you determine if the online proctoring platform is actually effective?

In 2023, Honorlock plans to release the most robust analytics reporting available in the online proctoring space.

The analytics dashboard will allow institutions to:

Honorlock’s dashboard will provide powerful, on-demand analytics empowering institutions to uphold equity, integrity, and exam security by understanding usage trends.

Proctoring dashboard ratings

LMS integrations

The proctoring platform’s integration with Learning Management Systems.

The integration between the online proctoring platform and the LMS impacts the entire experience for every user. It’s the difference between a secure proctoring platform that’s easy to use and a frustrating experience that puts security at risk.

Honorlock’s direct LMS integration means that:

No extra logins or passwords are needed for admins or test takers.
Exam admins create exams in the LMS like normal and then choose the proctoring features they want to use
Test takers log into the LMS and launch the exam before verifying their ID and getting started.
The integration process takes about an hour to complete

Honorlock’s proctoring platform integrates with Blackboard Learn, Instructure Canvas, Moodle, D2L Brightspace, and Intellum. We also offer custom LMS integrations.

Proctoring LMS integration ratings

Other things to look for to find the best online proctoring service and software

Cell phone detection

Some online proctoring services claim to have cell phone detection, but Honorlock has the most robust cell phone detection available.

Honorlock’s AI proctoring software can detect when students attempt to use their cell phones to access test bank content during the tests, and we’re the only online proctoring company detecting device sharing apps like Apple Handoff.

Technology that finds leaked test content

Honorlock’s Search & Destroy technology scours the internet to find leaked exam questions. If leaked exam questions are found, instructors are given simple steps to take control of their exams’ integrity.

Unlike the technologies at proctoring companies, instructors using Search and Destroy typically won’t have to deal with the hassle of manually selecting which questions they would like to search for. In just a few minutes, Search and Destroy searches all questions included in the exam.

Live US-based support 24/7/365

If proctored exams are available 24/7/365, support should be available at all times too. The quality of support matters too. Ask proctoring services about support satisfaction and support response times.

Honorlock offers 24/7/365 live human support at no extra cost. Our support response time is less than five seconds, and we have the highest support satisfaction rating (93%) on G2 for online proctoring companies.

Flat-rate cost

Variable prices can add up quickly. Find an online proctoring service, like Honorlock, that offers online proctoring at a flat rate cost per user or exam. Including implementation and 24/7/365 live human support.

While there are many online proctoring companies offering different software and services, make sure that you’re choosing the right one for your needs. We encourage you to dig into G2’s reviews for online proctoring because we know that you’ll come to the same conclusion that many others have: Honorlock is the leader in online proctoring and a true partner in academic integrity.

Schedule a Demo

Tyler Stike

Tyler has over a decade of experience in ed tech and higher education. He focuses on creating relevant and useful content for educators, institutions, and technologists.

7 reasons online proctoring works for any course format

Can in-person classes and blended courses benefit from online proctoring?

Teaching in-person classes means testing during class, right? Nope.

We’ll show you seven benefits of online proctoring for in-person, hybrid/blended, and fully remote courses.

1. Proctoring tests outside of class = more time to teach

If an instructor teaches a one hour class in person three times per week, that’s about 45 class hours during a 15-week semester.

Administering just five tests during classroom hours that semester is over 11% of classroom time (approximately 5 hours).

What else could you teach students with those five hours?

2. Online test proctoring is proven to reduce cheating

Whether students take tests in class, at a testing center, or at home, precautions should be taken to prevent cheating.

Many believe online testing amplifies cheating

A survey showed that 3 out of 4 instructors believe more students cheat during online exams, and almost 60% of students said it’s easier to cheat online.¹

But it’s worth noting that the same survey found that 70% of students said they’re less likely to cheat if online exam proctoring is used.

Online proctoring significantly reduces cheating and test scores are much different

Three studies showed that cheating is reduced and grades are vastly different when online proctoring is used.

Proctoring deters and reduces cheating

Study 1: 70% of students made cheating attempts during unproctored tests, compared to just 15% during proctored tests.²

Test scores significantly change when online proctoring is used

Study 2: Proctored test scores were 17 points lower than unproctored tests.³

Study 3: Test scores decreased by 10 to 20 percentage points when proctoring was used.⁴

These studies also considered variables that can impact students’ test performance, like test anxiety, the types of questions, subjects, etc. While student test anxiety is often associated with online proctoring, students didn’t give any feedback that online proctoring increased their anxiety. Simply put, online proctoring didn’t create any stress that impacted test scores.

3. Reduces testing center costs

Physical testing centers have significant overhead costs for things like hardware and software, utilities, and proctors’ wages. Online proctoring can help save money by reducing the need for physical testing centers and proctors because the exams are remotely proctored, which saves time and money for the institution and its students. Additionally, online proctoring easily scales to accommodate times when a large number of students are taking exams at once, like around midterms and finals, without the need for additional physical testing facilities or staff.

4. Students prefer online testing, and proctoring extends the benefits

It’s pretty easy to understand why students prefer taking tests online instead of in person:

Online proctoring software helps assess students with realistic job tasks

78% of students believe online tests are similar to a real environment ⁵ and create an authentic experience.⁶

Whether working from home or in the office, students know they’ll use different technologies, like Zoom and Excel, to some extent. With online proctoring, instructors can have students complete realistic job tasks during an online authentic assessment without concerns of cheating, such as:

Using software like Excel, Word, & text editors

Presentations & demonstrations on Zoom

Handwritten activities using pen and paper

“The accounting programs use Honorlock to proctor tests where students are using software to fix balance sheets and other similar documents, while other programs use it for short answer and essay questions.” – Paul Fisher, Associate CIO & Director of the Teaching & Learning Technology Center at Seton Hall University

Most students trust automated scoring more than hand grading

78% of students trust online exam scoring over hand grading.⁷

Most online exams are automatically graded, which reduces human error and provides grades and feedback instantly.

Online proctoring solutions provide an additional layer of confidence that exam students can’t gain an unfair advantage and that the entire exam process is protected from start to finish.

Online test proctoring offers more flexibility in time and location

Did you know that even taking a test in a different room or just sitting in a different seat can negatively affect test performance?⁸

While online testing gives students the flexibility to test when they’re ready from a comfortable location, if online proctoring isn’t in place, there’s really no way to stop students from cheating.

However, if a blended proctoring solution like Honorlock is used, students can take tests 24/7/365 (and get live support from a person), and instructors won’t have to worry about academic dishonesty.

“Honorlock definitely makes test taking a lot more flexible and convenient. I don’t like having to take a test at a certain time and place when I can take it in the comfort of my own home.” – Madi Kuokos, University of Florida graduate

5. Protects institutional reputation & degree value

As a student, which institution would you rather earn your degree from?

Institution 1: A reputable, well-respected institution known for a high-quality education that prioritizes academic rigor

Institution 2: An institution that’s seen as an easy route to a degree because students can cheat their way through

You’d probably pick Institution 1, right?

Now imagine if the institution you earned a degree from gets exposed in a cheating scandal. How much would that devalue your degree? Online proctoring helps colleges and universities further establish their reputation and position themselves as the best choice for students who are serious about their education.

6. Online proctoring can improve accessibility & increase access

According to the US Department of Education, 1 in 5 college students have a disability and that more than 40% of students paying tuition independently are in or near poverty.

With those statistics in mind, consider these questions:

Does your testing center have the resources and support to meet your students’ needs?
Does it meet accessibility compliance standards?
What happens if a student’s schedule doesn’t align with your testing center’s availability?
What if they can’t afford to travel to campus?

Honorlock’s online proctoring solution increases access and accessibility

Honorlock’s online proctoring software is compliant with web accessibility standards and allows instructors to provide specific accommodations, like using assistive technologies, completing a proctored exam without a webcam, and alternative options to complete assessment activities.

Additionally, Honorlock has failsafes in place if a student’s internet speed drops below thresholds for streaming video. Students can also take online proctored assessments 24/7/365, which helps students with busy schedules and households.

“Honorlock helps us get to the core of our mission here at Warrington: being able to offer an MBA to just about anybody. Having a proctoring service focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion made choosing Honorlock an easy fit for us.” – Naz Erenguc, University of Florida, Director of Admissions at the Warrington College of Business

7. Online proctoring helps institutions maintain accreditation compliance

Many colleges and universities participating in remote learning, whether fully remote or hybrid/blended, are required to meet rigorous standards set by accrediting bodies for assessment and academic integrity. This is especially important for institutions that receive Title IV funding because they must have specific technology in place to verify the identity of online exam-takers to ensure they are enrolled students. One way to meet this identity verification requirement is to use online proctoring.

Honorlock’s online proctoring solution isn’t just for online courses

Regardless of the modality of your classes, Honorlock’s blended proctoring solution, which uses AI and human proctors, creates a dynamic and non-invasive test environment that gives students the flexibility and convenience they need, while instructors gain confidence that academic integrity is protected and have more time to teach instead of test. Additionally, Honorlock’s proctoring software prevents ChatGPT, detects cell phones, finds leaked test content, and more.

Schedule a Demo

Sources:

¹ Wiley, (2022). New Insights into Academic Integrity 2022 Update.

² Pleasants, J., Pleasants, J. M., & Pleasants B. P. (2021). Cheating on unproctored online exams: Prevalence, mitigation measures, and effects on exam performance.

³ Alessio, H. M.; Malay, N.; Maurer, K.; Bailer, A. J.; & Rubin, B. (2017). Examining the Effect of Proctoring on Online Test Scores.

⁴ Dendir, S., & Stockton Maxwell, R. (2020). Cheating in online courses: Evidence from online proctoring

⁵Attia M. 2014. Postgraduate students’ perceptions toward online assessment.

⁶Matthíasdóttir Á., Arnalds H. 2016. e-assessment: students’ point of view; pp. 369–374.

⁷Williams J.B., Wong A. 2009. The efficacy of final examinations: A comparative study of closed‐book, invigilated exams and open‐book, open‐web exams.

⁸Van Der Wege, M., & Barry, L. A. (2008). Potential perils of changing environmental context on examination scores.

Tyler Stike

Tyler has over a decade of experience in ed tech and higher education. He focuses on creating relevant and useful content for educators, institutions, and technologists.

Improving Exams & Online Learning Online proctoring

Hint: Plagiarism detection can ‘t really detect AI

Can plagiarism checkers catch ChatGPT?

Some plagiarism checkers are pretty good, but can they catch ChatGPT? Ehhh… not really. But you still have options to stop ChatGPT from being used.

This article will show you:
– A simple analogy of how ChatGPT works with real examples

– How plagiarism checkers work & why they can’t catch ChatGPT

– Proctoring software that can prevent the use of ChatGPT during written activities

How does plagiarism detection software work?

It compares written text submissions to its database of content. Some plagiarism checkers only find exact matches, but others can identify paraphrasing.

Does ChatGPT plagiarize?

ChatGPT does not plagiarize.

How does ChatGPT work if it doesn’t copy internet content?

ChatGPT was trained WITH internet resources, but it doesn’t copy content FROM the internet.

Here’s a quick analogy of how it works:

– You learn from articles, textbooks, research, instructors, lectures, etc.

– But you don’t regurgitate that information word-for word.

– You understand what you learned, make connections, and apply it in different ways.

That’s basically how ChatGPT works. It learns, makes connections, and writes tailored responses based on the prompts it’s given. ChatGPT writes like a person because it receives human feedback that refines its responses.

Are there plagiarism checkers made specifically for ChatGPT?

Yes, some plagiarism checkers only check for ChatGPT plagiarism. Sounds good, but they basically just group responses to really general prompts.

These won’t catch ChatGPT because detailed prompts produce tailored responses that won’t be detected by plagiarism detection software. To show you what we mean, here are some of ChatGPT’s responses that change based on the details in the prompts. While the “General Prompt” may eventually be grouped, the others won’t be.

Prompts can be more detailed, and you can even have them written from a specific person’s perspective, like the example below.

Where does ChatGPT get its information?

ChatGPT gets its information from the 300 billion words it was trained on from internet resources, like articles, research, websites, etc.*

Can online proctoring stop ChatGPT?

Prevents copying and pasting

Example: If participants have an idea of the topic they’ll need to write about during the written assignment/exam, they could copy and paste a written response from ChatGPT.

Honorlock’s proctoring software prevents participants from copying and pasting, and it flags the action.

Blocks websites, browsers, and applications

Example: Participants try to open a different browser tab to use ChatGPT.

Honorlock’s BrowserGuard prevents participants from opening other browsers and applications. It also allows you to give access to specific sites while still blocking others. For example, participants can access a research study, but can’t still access ChatGPT.

Listens for specific keywords/phrases to use voice assistants like Siri and Alexa

Example: Participants can use voice commands and dictation on their phones to have Alexa or Siri open ChatGPT, ask specific prompts, and read the responses aloud.

Honorlock’s smart Voice Detection listens for specific things like “Hey Siri,” “Alexa,” and “OK Google.” It also records and transcribes what’s said and alerts a live proctor.

Checks the room for other resources like cell phones

Example: A participant uses ChatGPT on a cell phone that’s out of view of the webcam.

With Honorlock, instructors have the option to require participants to complete a roomscan that checks for unauthorized resources that could be used to access ChatGPT and even other people.

Records participants’ screens while they’re writing

Honorlock records the participants’ desktops during the written activity and/or exam and requires them to disconnect secondary monitors. Instructors can watch time-stamped exam recordings and review in-depth reports.

Other ways Honorlock’s online proctoring software prevents cheating on exams

Detects cell phone use

Honorlock can detect if a participant attempts to access test bank content using a cell phone or other devices during the written activity.

Verifies identity in about a minute

Our ID verification process is quick and simple. It captures a picture of the test-taker along with their photo ID in about 60 seconds.

Finds leaked test questions

Have you ever found your test content leaked on sites like Quizlet, Chegg, or Reddit? Honorlock can help.

Our Search and Destroy™ technology scours the internet for your leaked test content and gives you the ability to send takedown requests with one click.

Get in touch with our experts to see how Honorlock can help your institution stay ahead of the technology curve by preventing the use of AI chatbots like ChatGPT.

Certifications & Corporate Certifications and Corporate Improving Exams & Online Learning Online proctoring

ChatGPT vs. Honorlock Online Proctoring

Using online proctoring services to stop students from cheating with ChatGPT

Many are nervous about the arrival of ChatGPT, the AI chatbot that can write about anything. ChatGPT can write essays, solve math problems, make original jokes, and even write code.

But it doesn’t write like a typical AI tool, which is repetitive and awkward. ChatGPT writes just like a human, and it writes well. VERY well.

In fact, ChatGPT recently passed some pretty tough exams:

Can plagiarism tools catch ChatGPT?

Plagiarism tools can’t really catch ChatGPT. At least not yet. That’s because ChatGPT was trained with about 300 billion words from internet resources, like research, articles, websites, and more. But it doesn’t get its information from the internet.

Sounds confusing, but here’s an analogy for how ChatGPT works:

During your education, you learned from different textbooks, articles, and instructors. But you don’t just regurgitate that information. You understand it, and you can make complex connections to use in different ways.

That’s basically how ChatGPT works. It doesn’t just copy different pieces of content from the internet. ChatGPT really “comes to life” because it receives feedback and review from experts, which refines its responses to sound more human. All of this is why plagiarism tools won’t catch it anytime soon.

How can Honorlock’s online proctoring software prevent the use of ChatGPT for written assignments?

To show you how it works, we’ll use a realistic scenario where an instructor wants participants in class to complete a 500 word essay by 11:59 p.m. on Friday.

Set the amount of time they have to write the essay once they begin

Instructors can create rules that specify a certain number of hours participants have to complete the written assignment once they begin. Honorlock’s proctoring software and services are available 24/7/365, so they can write their essays anytime they’re ready within your set time frame, and you’ll know it’s being proctored.

Lock the browser

With Honorlock’s BrowserGuard, instructors could do the following:

Prevent access to all other websites, browsers, and applications.
Allow access to specific websites and applications while blocking all others, including ChatGPT.

This is important because you may want to give participants access to certain internet articles or lectures in PowerPoint as a supplement while they’re writing their essay, but you want to make sure that they can’t access ChatGPT or other AI writing tools. With Honorlock, you can do just that.

Honorlock’s BrowserGuard also records the participants’ desktops and prevents keyboard shortcuts, like copying and pasting. If copy/paste is attempted, the participant receives a notification that it isn’t allowed and the AI marks it as a medium flag.

If you’re only using browser lockdown software, how would you know if:

Use smart voice detection

If your online proctoring platform doesn’t have smart voice detection, a participant could use a voice assistant, like Siri or Alexa, to:

Honorlock’s Smart Voice Detection listens for specific keywords or phrases, like “Hey Siri” or “OK Google,” and it records and transcribes audio while the exam is in progress. If it detects potentially dishonest behavior, a live proctor is alerted to review the situation and intervene if necessary.

Use the webcam to check the room and record behavior

Honorlock’s online proctoring platform makes it quick to check the room for unauthorized resources, like cell phones, notes, and even other people. And our proctoring software monitors and records behavior throughout the exam as well.

This way, you’ll know that test takers aren’t accessing ChatGPT from other devices or asking friends in the room to do it for them while they’re writing their essay.

Other online proctoring tools from Honorlock

Blends AI with human proctors

Honorlock upholds academic integrity with online exam proctoring that’s monitored by AI and reviewed by humans. Our AI proctoring software monitors exams for potentially dishonest behavior and alerts a live proctor to review (and intervene if necessary) if it detects any issues. Our blended proctoring solution delivers a less intimidating and non-invasive experience for participants.

Detects the use of cell phones and other devices

Honorlock’s online proctoring software can also detect when a test taker attempts to access test bank content using a cell phone or other devices during the proctored assessment activity.

Finds leaked test content on the internet

Honorlock’s Search and Destroy™ technology scours the internet automatically for leaked test content and gives instructors the ability to send takedown requests with one click. This way, you’ll know your test content isn’t available on sites like Quizlet, Chegg, Reddit, and Quora.

Verifies test takers’ identity

You need to know that the person taking the proctored exam is the same person getting credit in the class. Honorlock’s ID verification takes about 60 seconds. It captures a picture of the test-taker along with their photo ID.

ChatGPT is a powerful AI tool, but there are many other tools and different ways for test takers to gain an unfair advantage. Stay ahead of the curve with Honorlock’s blended proctoring solution.

Source:

chat.openai.com/
businessinsider.com/list-here-are-the-exams-chatgpt-has-passed-so-far-2023-1#us-medical-licensing-exam-2

Tyler Stike

Tyler has over a decade of experience in ed tech and higher education. He focuses on creating relevant and useful content for educators, institutions, and technologists.

Certifications and Corporate Improving Exams & Online Learning Online proctoring Thought Leadership

Online proctoring improves the testing experience

Using online proctoring to improve the online assessment experience

Online exams can be stressful for. And online proctoring can amplify that stress if it isn’t used correctly. Instead of focusing on the exam itself, the wrong approach to proctoring can lead to more questions and concerns that can negatively impact their performance.

How does online proctoring work?

What if I need to reschedule my exam?

Do I have to download software?

Will they think I’m cheating if I talk to myself?

Does a stranger watch me the whole time?

What if my internet is too slow?

Catching cheating vs improving the test-taking experience

Online proctoring is just a way to catch cheating, right? It shouldn’t be.
Catching cheating is the focus for many online proctoring companies, but Honorlock goes far beyond that. Honorlock takes a different approach to online proctoring that focuses on improving the testing experience while still protecting academic integrity.
Simply put, Honorlock makes things easy for test takers and it just works.

How does Honorlock improve the testing experience?

Quick summary of how Honorlock works:

Honorlock’s blended proctoring solution combines AI with human proctors.
AI monitors exams and alerts a human proctor if it detects potentially problematic behavior.
The proctor can review test taker’s behavior in an analysis window and decide whether to intervene and redirect the them or not.

Quick summary of how Honorlock works:

Honorlock allows proctored exams to be taken 24/7/365 and there’s no fee for canceling the exam or for exams that take longer to complete.
Unfortunately, some companies charge exam takers if they cancel an exam within a certain time frame before it starts. Even worse, in some cases, exam takers have to pay for exams by the hour. This means paying more money for longer exams.

No online proctoring software to download

Honorlock’s online proctoring software is browser-based, which means there’s no software to download to take the exam.

Easy to set up & no extra logins or passwords required

Honorlock’s online proctoring platform integrates directly with your LMS, such as Blackboard (and Blackboard Ultra), Canvas, and D2L, which is important because test takers won’t have to create extra profiles that require extra logins and passwords, and they can get support with without leaving the exam window
Some online proctoring platforms have clunky LMS integrations, which creates a poor experience and they’ll probably have to create additional profiles on different platforms.

Works with poor internet connection

Test takers won’t need to worry about their internet connection during a proctored exam with Honorlock. If the internet connection is slow or if there’s an outage, our software works normally except it captures still images of the webcam and the screen instead of a video recording.
On the other hand, some other proctoring services charge a fee if a test taker has an issue with their internet connection,

Detects voices instead of unimportant sounds

The terms “sound detection” and “voice detection” are often used interchangeably, but they’re different.
Sound detection triggers for basically any sounds during an exam, like sneezing or a doorbell ringing.
Honorlock’s Voice Detection listens for specific keywords and phrases, such as “Hey Siri” or “OK Google.” This helps reduce the number of false flags that exam administrators have to review, and test takers won’t be interrupted for sneezing or talking.

Provides accommodations

Accommodations can mean many different things, but here are some that are commonly used:

Extended time limits and due dates

Bathroom breaks

Alternative options to answer questions

Allowing the use of assistive technologies

Honorlock proctors are trained to provide support during times of stress

A nationally certified counselor and educator trained Honorlock’s online proctoring team to identify signs of stress and provide support during those moments.
This human-centric communication helps test takers gain confidence in the process and with our test proctors.

Honorlock is proven to reduce test anxiety

The University of North Alabama and Honorlock conducted a test anxiety survey to better understand the causes of test anxiety and how online proctoring impacts it.
The test takers were surveyed before and after taking assessments proctored by Honorlock. The survey found that every test taker who interacted with an Honorlock proctor had a significant decrease in anxiety for future exams.
“The proctor popping in was different than I expected – in a positive way. I imagined them being more strict. I felt that the proctor was helpful and a lot less intimidating than I thought.” – quote from a post-exam survey interview
Honorlock is proof that when online proctoring is done the right way, it’s a resource that supports test takers, promotes academic integrity, and protects the reputation of your programs.

Schedule a Demo

Tyler Stike

Tyler has over a decade of experience in ed tech and higher education. He focuses on creating relevant and useful content for educators, institutions, and technologists.

Improving Exams & Online Learning Online proctoring

2023 Higher Ed Online Learning Trends

Get the 2024 ebook: 7 ways AI can change online education

1. Teaching in metaverse classrooms

Expect to see instructors teaching in metaverse classrooms. Education in the metaverse is gaining attention because it creates a realistic classroom experience for instructors and students.
Students and instructors can enter a classroom in the metaverse, sit at a table, and talk to other students and instructors around them.

What does a classroom look like in the metaverse?

Metaverse classrooms can be designed and customized however the instructor wants. The images below give you an idea of what a metaverse classroom can look like from a general standpoint and from the student and instructor perspective.

General example of a group discussion

In this example, a group of students are sitting at a table in a classroom in metaverse and watching other students present through a video conferencing platform. Students are discussing the topic with others around them and interacting like they would in a classroom.

Student perspective

This example is what a metaverse classroom looks like for a student during a lecture. They’re sitting with other students while watching and listening to the instructor.

Instructor perspective

Teaching in the metaverse is very similar to teaching in a physical classroom. You can stand in front of students, discuss topics, and call on students who raise their hands.

2. Online exams will include more hands-on activities

Did you know that about 90% of students and instructors consider learning job competencies as part of educational success?*
That’s why you can expect to see more instructors, whether teaching in-person or online, use hands-on assessments that require students to complete real job tasks. These assessments are also referred to as authentic assessments and competency-based assessments.
Isn’t it more difficult to conduct hands-on assessments in a remote setting? Nope. If you have the right educational technology in place, you can test your online students with just about any activity you would do in the classroom.

Examples of hands-on assessment activities:

Handwritten math problems & essays: Biology students use pen and paper to complete calculus math problems and an essay.

Software use: Accounting students prepare a balance sheet in Excel and a tax return in QuickBooks.

Virtual demonstrations: Nursing students demonstrate how to use it to take blood pressure.

Virtual presentation: Business students present on how to use predictive analytics to improve future performance.

Open-book: Students use specific textbooks and/or have access to certain websites and online resources.

To effectively offer online authentic assessments, you’ll need to use a combination of LMS settings, online proctoring tools, and student accommodations.
Get a 3-part online authentic assessment eBook that shows you how to create different types of hands-on assessment activities, the educational technology you’ll need to use, and how to streamline grading.

3. Protecting test questions from being leaked on the internet

Many instructors find their test questions leaked on sites like Reddit, Quora, Chegg, and Quizlet.
But there are ways to protect your test content.
Some are slow and tedious. Others are quick and effective.

Which option sounds best?

Option 1: Copying and pasting individual test questions into a search engine, reviewing endless results, and then sending individual takedown requests.
Option 2: Manually selecting each test question the software should search for and then sending individual takedown requests.
Option 3: Using online proctoring software that searches for all of your test questions automatically and allows you to send takedown requests with a single click.
Unless you like manual work that takes forever, option 3 is your best bet.
And with Honorlock’s Search & Destroy technology, you can do just that.

Here’s how Honorlock’s Search & Destroy works:

1. Searches the internet automatically for all of your test questions
2. Review the results
Reports show you if any questions have been leaked and where.
3. Send takedown requests with one click
If any test questions are leaked, you can send a takedown request with one click.

4. Using blended proctoring instead of single-approach solutions

You’ll likely see more institutions shift away from single-approach proctoring solutions, like browser lockdown software, only using live proctors, or AI by itself.

Here’s how Honorlock’s Search & Destroy works:

Browser lockdown software is cheap, but you get what you pay for because it doesn’t really prevent cheating. Students can simply use cell phones or notes to find answers.

Why waste money on something that doesn’t work?
Automated (AI) proctoring monitors exams using AI. AI is effective at detecting certain behaviors, but it isn’t perfect; it needs human oversight to navigate complex situations that can occur during online exams.
Live proctoring means that a person is watching many students at once. The human oversight is there, but it’s expensive, distracts students, and causes scheduling nightmares. Additionally, a live proctor may not see students cheating because they’re watching multiple exam sessions.
Blended proctoring combines all of the single-approach solutions into one comprehensive solution.
While there are a few companies out there that combine AI with human proctors, they’re not the same. Proctoring companies, like Honorlock, take it a step further with advanced AI proctoring software (detects cell phone use, uses smart voice detection, finds leaked test content, etc.) and live proctors that are trained to support students during times of stress and anxiety.

5. Developing DEI initiatives for online learning

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) means more than adding a statement to your website. It’s a continual journey that takes genuine effort from everyone at every level of the institution. DEI initiatives are a win-win because, aside from improving the entire teaching and learning experience, it can help improve revenue.

2023 DEI initiatives for online learning

Incorporating diverse content from a variety of sources that offer different perspectives, insights, and opinions.

Following web accessibility standards and best practices so that every student, regardless of disability or condition, can engage, interact, and learn. See number 6 for examples.

Using educational technology to provide student accommodations, like extended time limits and dates for exams and assignments, allowing other people and resources in the room during exams, and different ways for students to engage with course content. We elaborate on this in number 6.

Connecting with students — not just knowing their names and where they’re from — by understanding their backgrounds, openly communicating, and gathering their feedback.

Creating a genuine welcome experience for online students. The student welcome experience (or onboarding) is common for students who are on campus, but it’s almost nonexistent for online students. Read more in number 7.

DEI can increase revenue

DEI initiatives help create a cycle of interconnected improvements that ultimately tie back to financial benefits for colleges and universities.
DEI helps improve reputation. Reputation helps increase recruitment of students and employees. Engagement improves retention. All of those drive toward more revenue. More revenue can help access more resources to further improve institutional efforts.

Instructor perspective

5-part DEI for online learning ebook

Copy & paste diversity statement template

6. Following web accessibility compliance standards and best practices

For some students, seemingly small changes are the difference between being able to interact and engage with course content or being left out. That’s why it’s so important for instructors and e-learning faculty to follow web accessibility compliance standards and apply best practices.

Web accessibility tips to get you started:

Follow POUR principles

POUR principles are essential for creating accessible online content that’s easy to navigate.

Web accessibility best practices and tips

Make the content easy to read

Use the right font sizes and types

Follow color contrast ratios

Use descriptive link text

Create text alternatives for all multimedia

All multimedia (videos, images, and audio) should have text alternatives, such as captions, subtitles, transcripts, and descriptions.

Structure and organize your content

Use headings, not bold font

Headings should be used in order

Use numbered or bulleted lists instead of hyphens

Make your course structure easy to navigate by keeping a consistent structure

Provide student accommodations

Students may need specific accommodations, such as:

Extended exam time limits and due dates

Bathroom breaks

Alternative ways to answer test questions

Using assistive technologies, like screen readers and talk-to-text dictation software, during the exam

Understanding & meeting accessibility compliance standards

There are many accessibility compliance standards, but there are the big three to understand.

American Disability Act (ADA)

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

Section 508

Need more motivation to meet these compliance standards? It’s a financial risk because noncompliance could lead to lawsuits. Institutions that receive federal financial aid are required by law to meet web accessibility compliance standards or provide reasonable accommodations.
To learn more, download our 3-Part eBook: Accessibility in Online Learning, which shows you screenshots and real examples of the elements above along with detailed information about compliance standards.

7. Creating a real welcome orientation for online students

According to a survey*, students are 35 times more likely to have a great overall university experience if their onboarding orientation is excellent. Unfortunately, that same survey showed that just a third of students said they had a great welcome experience.

Tips to improve the welcome orientation experience for online students:

Plan virtual activities before the semester begins, such as:

Using video conferencing platforms for virtual meet-and-greets

Group scavenger hunts and virtual escape rooms

Games such as trivia and bingo

Create a site page with ALL resources online students need, like:

Hardware and software requirements

Learning resources (study groups, OER, online libraries, tutoring, etc.)

How to get technical support

Student privacy and security information

Important dates like the start and end of the semester, midterms and finals, holiday breaks, etc.

Build an ambassador program for online students

Simplify processes to register for courses, get technical support, etc.

Use anonymous surveys to gather student feedback about how to improve the welcome experience

See 8 tips for creating online student orientation

8. More online high-stakes testing

Some institutions are reluctant to offer high-stakes tests in an online format, but many are beginning to move in that direction.
Now, MBA programs and even law schools are offering online final exams. And standardized tests, like the GRE and GMAT, are offered in an online format.
Much of this trust for online high-stakes testing comes from the ability to create a secure test environment that prevents cheating regardless of the location.
With blended proctoring, institutions and organizations can be confident that their high-stakes exams are safe and that academic integrity is preserved.

9. Increases in social learning elements

Expect to see more social learning elements in online learning in 2023 because they give students the opportunity to truly connect and collaborate, share ideas and perspectives, and learn from others.

Example of cohesive social learning efforts in an online course:

Break students into groups to review specific case studies.

Individual group members answer case study questions in a forum.

Each group uses a video conferencing platform to discuss answers.

After discussing, each group creates a case study summary in a shared Google Doc and three poll questions for the larger class.

The group will present the summary to the class and use real-time polls in the conferencing tool to gather opinions from other students.

Common technologies to facilitate social learning:

Video conferencing

Game-based activities

Discussions, chats, and forums

Social media-like elements

Platforms exclusively for social learning

Sign up to receive more resources improve online teaching and learning

*Instructure. (2022). State of Student Success & Engagement in Higher Education.
*Salesforce. 2022. Connected Student Report (Third Edition)

Tyler Stike

Tyler has over a decade of experience in ed tech and higher education. He focuses on creating relevant and useful content for educators, institutions, and technologists.

Improving Exams & Online Learning Thought Leadership

Creating online student orientations in higher ed

Student orientations, sometimes called student welcoming or onboarding, significantly impact students’ overall university experience.
According to a recent survey*, when students have a great welcome experience, they’re 35 times more likely to have a positive overall university experience.
Unfortunately, that same survey showed that only a third of students said they had a great orientation, and online learning can make it even more difficult.
The good news? There are realistic ways — which are mostly quick to implement — to improve online student orientations.

8 tips to create the best online student orientation

1. Plan virtual welcome activities to engage students before the semester

Virtual welcome activities should allow students to connect with each other and instructors – and make it fun!

Virtual welcome activity ideas:

Meet-and-greets using video conferencing

Group scavenger hunts

Games (trivia, virtual escape rooms, bingo, etc.)

2. Simplify processes

Regardless of whether a student has taken online courses or not, make everything simple and easy.
Whether it’s registering for online courses and getting technical support, or even just providing single sign-on, remove any obstacles that may frustrate or deter students.
Keep in mind that the format and design of online courses should also be simplified and easy to navigate. Follow online course design best practices to meet students’ needs.

3. Talk about the importance of DEI

You want students to know why DEI is so important and how it benefits the entire teaching and learning experience. It’s also important to explain what you expect from students and what they can expect from you.

DEI resources

5-part DEI for online learning ebook to help you start and improve your efforts

Copy & paste diversity statement template that you can edit or use as is

4. Create a site page with any resources for online students

Online students need one location with all of the information and resources they need, such as:

Hardware and software requirements

Technical support options and availability

Student privacy information

Learning resources (online library, OER, tutoring, study groups etc.)

Important dates such as midterms and finals, the start and end of the semester, holiday breaks, and so on

5. Build an ambassador program for online students

Find current online students who can connect with future students and share information about their experiences, perspectives, and tips for success in online learning.

6. Gather student feedback

Use anonymous surveys to better understand students’ questions, expectations, needs, and how to improve the welcome experience.

7. Use emotional intelligence

Many people believe that emotional intelligence is something you either have or don’t have. But there are many ways to improve emotional intelligence in online courses.
Emotional intelligence helps build relationships, trust, and communication, which is exactly what you want in online learning.

8. Tell them about yourself

Telling students about yourself can help establish credibility and build trust – you may find some common interests!
Keep it simple and don’t overthink it. Talk about your background, hobbies, education, and even a funny story that makes you who you are.

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*Salesforce. 2022. Connected Student Report (Third Edition)

Tyler Stike

Tyler has over a decade of experience in ed tech and higher education. He focuses on creating relevant and useful content for educators, institutions, and technologists.

Improving Exams & Online Learning Thought Leadership

The causes of test anxiety may surprise you

As online learning continues to grow, so has testing anxiety. Learners have concerns about the technology, the process and the presence of live proctors.
But online proctoring doesn’t need to add to the stress of test-taking. When institutions create the proper environment and prepare test takers for online assessments, they report that having a live proctor can actually reduce anxiety. Further, effective proctor training can build confidence.
To learn more about test anxiety during a proctored online exam, Honorlock conducted a survey. Jordan Adair, VP of Product at Honorlock, recently sat down with Tests and the Rest podcast to share the survey results and discuss how remote proctors can help reduce test anxiety.

What is test anxiety?

Test anxiety is any physical and emotional reaction that negatively impacts a test takers ability to perform well on a test.

5 key learnings from the test anxiety survey:

1. How do test takers react to proctored online exams?

Regardless of how well-prepared the test taker is, many still feel a sense of anxiety.
In the online proctoring space, this is often increased, as test takers may be unfamiliar with the online proctoring system or the method of proctoring that will be used on a particular exam. The findings indicated that even well-prepared test takers are likely to feel anxious heading into a proctored assessment, with 64% agreeing or strongly agreeing with the statement “taking an online test makes me nervous.”

2. Does the environment affect test anxiety?

Test takers experience testing anxiety both in-person and online, so it isn’t just the environment. The increase in online assessments has heightened anxiety due to concerns about the technology, the testing process, and the presence of live test proctors.

3. What causes test anxiety?

It mostly stems from not understanding how online proctoring works and not knowing what to expect.

3 main causes of test anxiety

Technology concerns and how to use the proctoring software

Test takers often worry about their device work with the online proctoring software and other issues, such as internet connection.

Unaware of what behaviors may be flagged

They may not understand what behaviors are acceptable and what may be flagged by the proctoring solution or live proctor.

Unfamiliar with how interactions with a proctor will go

Potentially interacting with a proctor can be nerve-racking, especially if the test taker hasn’t never experienced it before.

4. What can help reduce test anxiety?

When you create a proper test environment and prepare learners beforehand, they report that a live proctor can actually reduce anxiety.

Describe how online proctoring works

A basic understanding of how online proctoring works goes a long way. Give learners a high-level overview of how the online proctoring software works and what they can expect before, during, and after the exam.

Explain what behaviors may trigger flags from the proctoring platform

Test takers need to know what behaviors are appropriate compared to those that can trigger a flag.
For example, here are the things test takers think might get flagged (none of these actually cause flags in Honorlock):

A barking dog

Reading a question out loud

Looking up to think about a question

Tapping on the desk

Offer practice exams

After they understand the basics of how online proctoring works and what behavior is acceptable, let them use it.
Practice exams provide learners with the opportunity to get comfortable with using the online proctoring platform, making sure their technology works, and interacting with a live proctor.

Show them where to find support

Make sure test takers know where to find support if they need it. Ideally, live support will be available 24/7 without having to leave the exam window.

5. How does remote proctor training help with test anxiety?

How proctors are trained is crucial for helping reduce test anxiety. They need the ability to identify symptoms of test anxiety and stress and how to positively interact with test takers during the proctored tests.

Identifying symptoms of test anxiety and signs of stress

Proctors should be trained to spot physical behaviors and signs of stress. Test anxiety symptoms can include things such as lip licking, excessive throat clearing, propping the head up, and touching or rubbing the face.

Positive interactions

Once physical signs of stress and anxiety are identified, proctors need to understand how to best interact with a test taker. This includes approaching a them in a helpful manner and then having the correct training and tools to help alleviate any stressful situation while decreasing the risk of confrontation.
Honorlock’s remote proctoring team received training from a nationally certified counselor to learn how to de-escalate test takers who are stressed or anxious and reduce anxiety so that they can continue taking the exam.
Positive interactions with a proctor can have a lasting impact on reducing test anxiety. In fact, a test anxiety survey found that 100% of test takers who interacted with an Honorlock proctor responded “Yes” to the interview question, “Did the proctor make you less anxious?”
Applying these key learnings can help build confidence and prepare learners to perform their best on exams.

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Tyler Stike

Tyler has over a decade of experience in ed tech and higher education. He focuses on creating relevant and useful content for educators, institutions, and technologists.

Improving Exams & Online Learning Online proctoring Thought Leadership

What is Blended Proctoring?

Ever heard of blended proctoring? When done the right way, it’s the one of the most effective way to proctor online exams.
But you have some other options to protect your exams (listed below). Most check the box. Some cover the basics. Few do it all.

Which option sounds like the best way to proctor online exams?

Unless you prefer distractions and spending money on software that doesn’t really do what you need, a blended approach is the best way.

What is blended proctoring?

Blended proctoring is an approach that combines AI with human review to protect academic integrity and prevent cheating, reduce test anxiety, and provide more options to assess knowledge.

How does proctoring work with a blended approach?

AI proctoring software monitors behavior

Various proctoring tools for online exams monitor for potentially dishonest behavior, such as exiting the screen or having unauthorized resources in the room.

The proctor software alerts a human if it detects any issues

Ideally, the software will allow the proctor to review the situation in an analysis window before deciding whether to intervene or not.

Review the proctored exam results in the LMS

After the proctored testing is completed, instructors should be able to review reports and time-stamped recordings in the LMS.

Common proctoring tools for online exams

Video monitoring: uses the webcam to monitor behavior, verify ID, and check for unauthorized resources.
Sound detection: AI proctoring software detects any sounds. This includes important sounds like voices and unimportant noises, like sneezing or a doorbell ringing.
Browser lockdown: entry-level remote proctoring software that prevents access to other browsers and certain keyboard functions.

Advanced online proctoring services and tools

The online proctoring services and tools below are exclusive to Honorlock, the first company to blend AI with human review.

But what is Honorlock?

Honorlock is an innovative online exam proctoring company for higher education and corporations.

Honorlock provides these online proctoring services and tools at no extra cost:

Test content protection: unlike other similar proctoring tools, Search & Destroy technology scours the Internet automatically to identify leaked test questions, and if it finds any, you can send one-click takedown requests.
24/7/365 proctored exams with live support: scheduling isn’t needed with Honorlock because proctored online exams and live US-based support are available on-demand.
Detects cell phone use: proctoring software can detect when test-takers try to use cell phones or other devices to access test bank content during exams.
Smart voice detection: This Honorlock feature is different from sound detection because it listens for specific keywords and phrases (like “OK Google” or “Hey Siri”), creates a transcript, and alerts a test proctor.

Who uses blended proctoring?

Blended proctoring is typically used in higher education and professional education.

Proctoring for higher education

Higher education uses online proctoring for things like assessments in online courses or blended courses, authentic assessments, entrance exams, and even high-stakes testing.

Proctoring for professional education

Common proctoring uses in professional education

Professional certification testing

Corporate training and development

Hands-on performance assessments

Pre-employment assessments

Invest in proctoring that does it all

Don’t spend time and money on a proctoring platform that doesn’t do what you need. Honorlock helps protect academic integrity while creating a better test experience that offers more ways to assess knowledge and supports successful online teaching and learning.

See how blended proctoring works with Honorlock

Fill out the form below to get in touch

Tyler Stike

Tyler has over a decade of experience in ed tech and higher education. He focuses on creating relevant and useful content for educators, institutions, and technologists.

Certifications & Corporate Certifications and Corporate Improving Exams & Online Learning Online proctoring

5 questions to consider if you aren’t proctoring online exams

If you aren’t using online proctoring (or just not using the right kind), you may be giving an unfair advantage to some test-takers and missing out on opportunities to test knowledge in nontraditional formats – even in a remote environment.
While most approach their online exams with integrity, some take advantage of unauthorized resources that are available in a remote testing environment, gaining an unfair advantage over others – maybe even unknowingly or innocently.
These unauthorized resources can include things like: notes and textbooks, or using cell phones and searching the internet during exams, which puts the academic integrity of your online exams at risk.

Consider these questions if you:

Do not use any online proctoring services or services
Only use browser lockdown software
Only use automated proctoring software (no human proctors) or live proctoring services (one proctor watching multiple test-takers at once)

How would you know if a test taker uses a cell phone to look up answers?

Without online proctoring software, test takers can use cell phones and other devices to look up answers during the test.
Browser lockdown software can’t detect cell phones, and some remote proctoring companies rely on live proctors seeing the cell phone to “detect” it.
Does it really work? Eh, not always. It’s pretty easy for a proctor to miss the cell phone because they may be watching a dozen test takers at once and the phone may be used out of view of the webcam.

So, how can proctored exams detect phones?

Unless you want to rely on a busy proctor seeing a phone, consider using Honorlock’s online proctoring platform to detect cell phone use.

How can Honorlock detect phones?

Honorlock’s online proctoring software can detect when test takers attempt to use cell phones or other devices to access test bank content during the test.
If it detects cell phone use, it alerts a test proctor to enter the test session and address the situation. It also flags the behavior for the instructor to review in a report after the proctored exam.
See how Honorlock can detect cell phones

How would you know the person taking the test is the same person getting credit for the class?

If you can’t verify the test-taker’s identity, you may be giving credit where credit is not due.
Without proctoring tools for online exams, your options are limited.
The good news: most online proctor companies offer ways to authenticate ID.
The bad news: it can be a complicated, time-consuming process that may put your data at risk.
Be sure that the online proctor companies you evaluate offer a quick, easy, and secure way to authenticate ID.

How does Honorlock’s proctoring platform authenticate ID?

In about a minute, the online proctoring platform captures a picture of the test-taker along with their photo ID to authenticate identity.
That covers the quick and easy parts, but what about security?
From our technology for remote proctoring to ongoing employee training, Honorlock takes a security-first approach in everything we do, including ID authentication.
Our remote proctoring software does not use face recognition or other biometric technologies (e.g., fingerprints or voiceprints) to identify test takers, and it doesn’t identify individual faces, store facial elements, or match faces to a database.
Learn about ID authentication with Honorlock

Are any of your test questions leaked online?

Have you ever found your test questions leaked on the internet? It’s pretty annoying, right?
Online forums (e.g., Reddit & Quora) and homework help sites (e.g., Chegg & Quizlet) have made it all too easy to find and share your test content.

How can you find leaked test content?

You basically have three options to find leaked test content:
Copying and pasting each test question into the search engine, one-by-one, and reviewing tons of results

Using basic proctor software to manually select questions you want it to search for

Searching the internet automatically for all of your leaked test questions in a few minutes with Honorlock’s Search & Destroy technology for remote proctoring

Here’s how Honorlock’s Search & Destroy proctoring technology works

After enabling Honorlock’s online proctor software, Search & Destroy automatically scours the internet for all of your test questions in a few minutes. A simple report shows if leaked content is found and then you can send takedown requests with one click.
See how Search & Destroy works

What if you could remotely proctor hands-on assessments in an online environment?

Whether traditional questions (multiple-choice, etc.) or non-traditional formats (see below), Honorlock helps you customize the proctoring tools and settings needed to protect nearly any assessment activity.

Non-traditional activities that can be remotely proctored using Honorlock:

Open-book questions
Test takers have access to specific physical resources (e.g., textbooks) and/or digital resources (e.g., online research journals) during the exam, while all other resources are prohibited.
See how to proctor open-book exams with Honorlock
Handwritten math problems & essays
Test takers complete handwritten math problems and essay responses using pen and paper.
How to proctor handwritten math problems & essays
Using software to complete tasks
Software like Microsoft Excel and Quickbooks can be used to complete real-world tasks during online exams.
Learn how Honorlock remotely proctors software use during an exam
Online presentations & demonstrations
Using the webcam to conduct presentations and demonstrations in a remote environment.
See how to proctor online presentations & demonstrations

What if you could reduce test anxiety with remote proctoring software?

Test anxiety is common, especially in an online environment. A university survey showed that 64% of test takers agreed that “taking an online test makes me nervous.”
But the good news is that the same survey showed that Honorlock’s blended proctoring solution, which combines AI and human review, reduced test anxiety.

Test anxiety survey results summary after taking online proctored exams using Honorlock:

6% decrease in test anxiety between their first & second proctored exams
15% decrease in anxiety associated with the statement, “Thoughts about the proctor interfered with my concentration.”
100% felt less anxious after interacting with an Honorlock proctor
Download the full anxiety survey eBook here

Online proctoring FAQ

What is online proctoring?

Online proctoring means monitoring test taker behavior with software and/or services to create a fair and equitable test environment that protects exam integrity.
Common online proctoring tools include: video monitoring, browser lockdown, audio monitoring, and ID verification.
Some online proctor companies, like Honorlock, offer advanced tools that:
Detect cell phones and voices
Find leaked test content automatically
Combine software with human review
Proctor exams online with live US-based support 24/7/365

Why should you proctor exams online?

Most assume that online exam proctoring is just to catch cheating, but it does much more.
In addition to preventing cheating, online proctoring is a strategic advantage and fundamental piece of distance learning that helps:
Instructors customize exams
Support test takers and reduce test anxiety
Assess knowledge with different question formats
Protect reputation and scale online testing
Provide flexibility to take proctored exams 24/7/365

What industries use online exam proctoring?

Online exam proctoring is often used in higher education and by organizations offering professional education programs.

Online proctoring in higher education

Universities and colleges use online proctoring services and software for:
General testing needs for online courses
High-stakes exams, like midterms and finals
On-campus testing centers
Entrance exams

Online proctoring for corporate and professional education

Organizations of all sizes typically use proctored exam platforms and services for:
Certification testing
Employee training and development
Performance assessments
Pre-employment assessments

How does online proctoring work with Honorlock?

Honorlock’s blended online proctoring solution combines AI software with human review.
Here’s how it works:
Honorlock’s proctoring platform integrates directly with the LMS, which means:
Instructors create exams like they already do, then select the remote proctoring tools and settings they want to use.
Test takers log into the LMS like they normally do (no extra logins or passwords), verify ID, launch the proctored exam, and get live support 24/7/365.
The online proctoring software monitors exams and alerts a proctor if it detects potentially problematic behavior.
Once alerted, they can review the situation in an analysis window to determine whether or not to intervene and address the situation.
After the proctored exams are completed, instructors can access reports with timestamped recordings within the LMS.

Honorlock provides the best way to proctor exams online for a few reasons:

Our remote proctoring platform integrates directly with the LMS, which makes it easy to use because it’s basically the same test environment
AI with human review protects academic integrity with a human touch
Proctored exams with live support can be taken 24/7/365
It reduces test anxiety because there are fewer distractions and test takers aren’t being watched the entire time

Why is Honorlock the best online proctoring software?

According to peer-to-peer review site, G2, Honorlock is the best online proctoring software because it’s easy to use, simple to set up, and live, US-based support is available 24/7/365.
Our online proctoring services and software create a better test environment that brings integrity, humanity, and confidence to online testing without sacrificing security or academic integrity.

Ready to proctor exams online with Honorlock?

Fill out the form to see how Honorlock’s test proctoring software & services work

Tyler Stike

Tyler has over a decade of experience in ed tech and higher education. He focuses on creating relevant and useful content for educators, institutions, and technologists.

Certifications & Corporate Certifications and Corporate Compare Proctoring Services Improving Exams & Online Learning Online proctoring