Types of online exam proctoring: Which one’s right for you?

With courses going online, cheating in remote assessments had increased from 29.9% to 54.7%. A secure, well-chosen proctored exam now decides whether your online testing program is trusted or questioned. 

“There are unquestionable benefits of online proctoring especially accessibility.” – Caspar Matthews, Director of electcomm.com

Yet, proctoring has different approaches, ranging from live online proctoring to fully AI-powered proctoring. 

Pick the wrong fit and you’ll overspend or leave loopholes test takers can exploit. This guide compares the core proctoring services, and helps you match each type to your next online exam.

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What is online exam proctoring?

Online exam proctoring is a form of remote invigilation for digital tests. During a proctored exam, software or human proctors monitor candidates’ webcams, microphones, and screens to verify identity and detect cheating.

It gives universities and companies the ability to conduct online assessments securely. Generally, proctoring services fall in four main categories. 

• Live proctoring
• Record & review
• AI-powered proctoring
• Hybrid proctoring

The four main types of online proctoring

Selecting a suitable online exam proctoring depends on your exam’s stakes, budget, and goals. Below are the four main types clearly explained:

1. Live proctoring

This type of proctored exam is supervised in real-time by a human proctor through a webcam, microphone, and screen share. They can chat with test takers, stop the session, or file instant reports. 

This style resembles a test hall but is suitable for remote online testing. It suits high-stakes exams yet costs more staff time and bandwidth.

2. Recorded proctoring

Here, the entire online exam session is recorded and stored for future reference. Proctors later speed-watch only the clips the system flagged during the assessment. 

You spend less on live staff yet still get human judgment. Results reach learners or hiring managers after a brief review delay.

3. Automated (AI) proctoring

Automated proctoring services use artificial intelligence to monitor exams. Major platforms that offers such proctoring has features like candidate’s movements tracker, browser activities, extra faces, or voices. 

It is budget-friendly and works well for online mass tests, but sometimes it incorrectly flags innocent behavior. 

4. Hybrid proctoring

Hybrid proctoring is a method that integrates AI monitoring systems with human judgment and oversight. The AI records suspicious occurrences during the online examination, and human reviewers review these alerts as quickly as possible. 

With every approach, Testlify has got an upper hand. Other providers often insist on expensive 360-degree cameras for high-stakes exams. But Testlify keeps things simple and affordable, with dual-camera proctoring.

• Primary camera (Webcam): The test taker faces their laptop or desktop webcam. This camera clearly shows the candidate’s face and screen activity. 

• Secondary camera (Smartphone or tablet): Another camera, like a smartphone or tablet, is placed behind the candidate. It gives a clear view from the back, showing their desk, computer screen, and surroundings.

This way, Testlify ensures a complete front-and-back view without the necessity for costly specialized equipment. It’s easy for test takers to set up and suit any high-stakes online exam proctoring scenario.

Still unsure which type best fits your requirements? Please read ahead.

How to choose the right proctoring type?

Choosing the right online exam proctoring doesn’t need to be complicated. Here’s a simple way to pick the best option for your needs:

Step 1: Know your exam stakes

• High stakes: Use live online proctoring or hybrid proctoring. Human involvement helps maintain maximum security.
  
• Moderate to low-stakes examinations: AI-based automated proctoring or recorded proctoring is often sufficient.

Step 2: Consider your budget

• Higher budget: Live human proctoring gives more security, but it’s costlier.
  
• Lower budget: AI or recorded proctoring services offer good security at a more affordable rate.

Step 3: Think about group size

• Small groups (under 50 test takers): Live proctoring is manageable.
  
• Large groups (over 50 test takers): AI-based or hybrid proctoring reduces complexity and cost.

Step 4: Speed of results

• Instant results needed: AI or hybrid proctoring gives immediate reports.
  
• Flexible timing: Recorded proctoring allows delayed reviews without issues.

Step 5: Technical ease for candidates & recruiters

• Basic setup: Webcam-only (live or recorded proctoring) is easy.
  
• Enhanced security: Dual camera proctoring (Testlify’s smartphone/tablet setup) adds security without expensive gear.

Final thoughts

Every proctored exam you conduct sends a clear message about how much you value fairness, security, and integrity. 

We understand this. Hence, whether you are considering live proctoring, AI-powered proctoring, or a hybrid approach, clarity is essential. Keep it simple. Keep it secure. Keep it affordable.

Testlify simplifies online assessments with easy setups, including dual-camera monitoring, without requiring costly equipment. Don’t risk your next online exam on guesswork. Give Testlify a try. 

Rishav Kumar

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B2B Saas Content Writer

Rishav Kumar is a B2B SaaS content writer with 4 years of experience. He loves crafting engaging content. Always exploring fresh ideas, he’s passionate about helping businesses grow through impactful writing.