Use this checklist to prepare for using Proctorio.
Using Proctorio is straightforward, but there is more to it than activation alone. It will affect your internal processes and candidate communications. Candidates must be informed and prepared to avoid issues and unnecessary stress during the exam.
One-time activation
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| Activate Proctorio | Once an agreement with Proctorio is in place, request the add-on via our customer portal. Cirrus will activate Proctorio and complete the setup described in the Proctorio article. |
| Set up a template | Set up at least one default template and save your settings the first time. |
General preparations
Candidates taking exams at home via Proctorio use their own devices and are exposed to risks such as internet connectivity issues and hardware variation. The goal is to minimise risk as far as possible. Proctorio cannot guarantee a 100% successful exam due to external factors.
Cirrus advises the following:
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| System Requirements | Ensure candidates are informed about the system requirements. For Proctorio, only Microsoft Edge or Chrome can be used. - Proctorio: see requirements - Cirrus: see requirements Always use the latest version of Chrome or Edge. |
| Lockdown options | Configure the lockdown settings and test them internally before using them with candidates. See Proctorio lockdown options for more information. |
| Communicating lockdown options to candidates | In some cases it helps to inform candidates about specific lockdown options, such as restrictions on opening new tabs or leaving the exam window. See lockdown options. |
| Practice exam | A practice exam is recommended so candidates become familiar with Cirrus and Proctorio, download the Proctorio extension, and identify any issues in advance before taking an important exam. |
| Communication during the exam | Inform candidates how to request support during the exam. Ensure it is clear how candidates can contact your organisation. Recommendations: * Set up a communication channel (phone or chat). * Inform candidates how to use Proctorio chat support and what to expect. * Become familiar with the Cirrus invigilation tool. |
| Invigilation in Cirrus | Become familiar with the Cirrus invigilation tool. Cirrus provides the following invigilation actions: pause/start exam, grant extra time, void exam, and send a message to candidates (this is a one-way notification, not a chat function). |
| Reviewing recordings | Proctorio is an AI-based solution; recordings are created after the exam finishes. Although lockdown options make it harder for candidates to cheat, it is still possible. Therefore, we recommend reviewing the Gradebook recordings. Consider integrating this into your processes: * Who will conduct the review? * If a candidate is found to have cheated, what is the next step? (See: Void results) * How will this be communicated to markers or lecturers? |