As online education becomes more widespread, so does the need for online proctoring services like Examity. Examity is an online proctoring service that monitors students during remote exams to prevent cheating. However, even with the strict measures put in place by Examity, false accusations of cheating can still occur. In this blog, we’ll explore how to respond to false accusations of online cheating when innocent.
What is Examity?
Examity is an online proctoring service that monitors students during remote exams. The service uses various methods, including artificial intelligence and live proctors, to detect cheating during exams. Examity provides a secure and reliable solution to ensure academic integrity during remote exams.
Importance of online proctoring in remote exams
Remote exams have become increasingly popular, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Online proctoring services like Examity provide a way for institutions to maintain academic integrity and prevent cheating during remote exams. Without online proctoring, it can be difficult to ensure that students are not cheating during exams.
Why do students cheat during online exams?
There are several reasons why students may cheat during online exams. Some students may feel overwhelmed by the exam and resort to cheating as a way to pass. Others may not have prepared adequately for the exam and feel like they have no other choice but to cheat. Additionally, some students may cheat due to pressure to maintain good grades or to meet expectations set by their parents or peers.
Common Misconceptions about Examity and Online Proctoring
There are several common misconceptions about Examity and online proctoring, including:
Online proctoring is invasive
While online proctoring may seem invasive, it is necessary to ensure academic integrity during remote exams. Examity only monitors students during the exam and does not collect any personal data.
Examity can’t detect cheating
Examity uses a variety of methods to detect cheating during online exams, including AI, live proctors, and audio and video recording. While no method is foolproof, Examity has a high success rate in detecting cheating.
Examity is biased
Examity is a neutral third-party service that does not have any bias towards the student or institution. The service is designed to ensure academic integrity and prevent cheating during remote exams.
How Students Cheat on Examity
It is important to note that cheating during exams is not ethical and can have serious consequences. However, some students may still attempt to cheat during online exams. Here are some common techniques used to bypass Examity:
Using a second device
One common technique employed by students to cheat on online exams through Examity is using a second device. By having a separate device, such as a smartphone or tablet, students can easily access the internet or messaging applications to look up answers or communicate with someone outside of the exam. This method allows them to bypass the monitoring system and gain unauthorized assistance or information during the exam. It is important for institutions to implement measures that restrict access to additional devices during the exam and actively monitor for any suspicious activities.
Preparing cheat sheets
Another method used by students to cheat on exams through Examity is preparing cheat sheets in advance. Cheat sheets are small notes or documents containing answers, key formulas, or important information that students refer to during the exam. These cheat sheets are often hidden within reach, such as under the desk, on the back of a calculator, or in clothing pockets. To counter this form of cheating, institutions can implement strict rules regarding the items allowed in the exam area and conduct thorough desk checks or use proctoring technologies that detect the presence of unauthorized materials.
Collaborating with others
Collaboration with others during the exam is another technique students may employ to cheat on Examity. This can involve communicating with classmates or friends via messaging platforms, social media, or phone calls to share answers or seek assistance. Students may coordinate efforts to divide questions among themselves and share solutions. To address this form of cheating, institutions can implement measures such as randomized question order, time constraints, and unique responses to deter collaboration. Additionally, proctoring technologies that monitor screen activity and detect unauthorized communication can help identify instances of collaboration and cheating.
Intercepting the Video Feed
Some students may attempt to intercept the video feed during an Examity proctored exam. They may employ techniques such as screen recording or using external devices to capture the video stream. By intercepting the video feed, they aim to create an opportunity to cheat without being detected by the proctor. Educational institutions need to be aware of such techniques and implement measures to prevent unauthorized access to the video feed.
Pre-Recorded Video
A more advanced cheating technique involves using pre-recorded video or audio to simulate participation in the exam. By playing a pre-recorded video of themselves or another person taking the exam, individuals can create an illusion of engagement while they engage in unauthorized activities. This method requires careful synchronization of the pre-recorded content with the exam questions and prompts. To mitigate this form of cheating, proctoring systems should employ measures to detect anomalies in video behavior and authenticate the test-taker’s live presence.
Non-Standard Hardware Approach
Some students may adopt a non-standard hardware approach to cheat on Examity. This can include the use of additional hardware devices or leveraging local area networks (LAN) to coordinate cheating efforts.
- Extra monitor – This technique involves using an extra monitor to view unauthorized materials or communicate with others during the exam. By expanding their screen real estate, individuals can have multiple windows open simultaneously, allowing them to access resources without detection. Institutions can address this by specifying the number and types of monitors allowed during the exam and ensuring strict proctoring measures to monitor for any unauthorized activities.
- LAN party – Coordinating with other students to cheat using a local area network (LAN) is another non-standard hardware approach. Students may connect their devices to a shared network and share answers or resources in real-time. Preventing this type of cheating requires secure network configurations, randomization of questions, and the use of anti-cheating technologies to detect unauthorized collaborations.
Non-Standard Software Approach
Innovative students may exploit non-standard software approaches to bypass Examity’s proctoring system and gain an unfair advantage.
Virtual Machine – Using a virtual machine is one such approach where individuals create a virtual environment within their computer system. This virtual machine acts as a separate operating system, allowing them to run unauthorized applications or access prohibited materials during the exam. To prevent this, institutions should implement monitoring techniques that can detect the presence of virtual machines or restrict their usage during the exam.
Non-Technical Approach
Not all cheating techniques on Examity rely on sophisticated technical means. Some individuals resort to non-technical approaches that exploit loopholes or rely on physical resources.
Use the Actual Textbook: This technique involves using the actual textbook during the exam, despite it being prohibited. Test-takers may attempt to discreetly refer to the textbook to find answers. Institutions can combat this by clearly communicating exam rules and implementing measures such as remote monitoring or frequent camera scans to identify any unauthorized materials.
- Use a Second Laptop: This approach involves using a second laptop or device to search for answers during the exam. By having a separate device, individuals can access the internet or online resources without detection. Strict device restrictions, such as disallowing additional devices during the exam, can help mitigate this form of cheating.
- “Mess With Them” Approach: This approach involves attempting to confuse or distract the proctor to cheat during the exam. Test-takers may intentionally create disturbances or engage in disruptive behavior to divert the proctor’s attention and gain an advantage. Proctors should be trained to identify such tactics and follow protocols to maintain a controlled and secure testing environment.
How to trick Examity’s knuckle-scanning technology?
Examity’s knuckle-scanning technology is designed to prevent students from cheating by detecting any attempts to use a phone or other device during the exam. However, some students may attempt to trick this technology by using a prosthetic or fake hand to scan their knuckles. While this may work initially, it is important to note that Examity’s AI algorithms can detect unusual behavior and may flag the use of a fake hand or prosthetic.
Consequences of Cheating on Examity
Penalties for cheating on Examity
Cheating on Examity can result in penalties such as failing the exam, receiving a lower grade, or even expulsion from the institution. Additionally, the institution may report the incident to other academic institutions, which could impact the student’s academic career.
Impact on academic and career goals
Cheating on Examity can have serious consequences for a student’s academic and career goals. A cheating incident can damage a student’s reputation and impact their future academic and professional opportunities.
Legal consequences of cheating
It is crucial for students to understand that cheating on Examity can have legal implications. While the specific legal consequences may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the cheating, certain forms of cheating, such as plagiarism or copyright infringement, are considered illegal in many jurisdictions.
Plagiarism
Plagiarism, for instance, involves presenting someone else’s work, ideas, or words as one’s own without proper attribution. This act violates intellectual property laws and can lead to legal consequences, including lawsuits and financial penalties. In academic settings, plagiarism can result in severe disciplinary actions, such as academic probation, suspension, or expulsion. It can also have long-term effects on a student’s reputation and future educational or professional opportunities.
Copyright infringement
Copyright infringement is another aspect to consider. Using copyrighted material without obtaining proper authorization or without meeting the criteria for fair use can be a violation of copyright laws. This includes using copyrighted text, images, videos, or any other form of intellectual property without permission. Educational institutions have policies in place to ensure compliance with copyright laws, and students who engage in copyright infringement through cheating can face legal repercussions, including lawsuits and financial penalties.
It is important for students to recognize that cheating not only undermines their own academic integrity but can also have far-reaching consequences beyond the educational institution. Engaging in cheating practices, particularly those that involve intellectual property violations, can lead to legal actions that have the potential to impact their personal and professional lives.
How to Avoid Cheating on Examity?
To avoid cheating during an Examity proctored exam, students can:
- Prepare adequately for the exam by studying the material in advance
- Ensure they have a reliable internet connection and functioning computer
- Familiarize themselves with Examity’s proctoring process and guidelines
- Strategies for maintaining academic integrity during online exams
- To maintain academic integrity during online exams, students can
- Avoid using any unauthorized materials during the exam
- Focus on the exam and avoid distractions
- Refrain from communicating with others during the exam
- Importance of honesty and integrity in academic pursuits
Honesty and integrity are essential values in academic pursuits. Cheating not only undermines the educational process but also damages a student’s reputation and future opportunities. By upholding honesty and integrity in academic pursuits, students can build a strong foundation for their future academic and professional careers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while false accusations of cheating can be frustrating, it is important to maintain academic integrity and avoid cheating during online exams. Examity and other online proctoring services play a vital role in ensuring academic integrity during remote exams. By preparing adequately for exams, focusing on the exam, and avoiding cheating, students can uphold honesty and integrity in their academic pursuits.
